Severe storms and persistent heavy rainfall battered large parts of the Northeast over the past two days, leaving a trail of destruction in Tripura and forcing widespread school closures in Mizoram, even as authorities stepped up relief and precautionary measures.
In Tripura, a powerful storm accompanied by intense rainfall on April 28 damaged at least 1,534 houses across all eight districts, according to the State Emergency Operation Centre in Agartala. Of these, 76 houses were completely destroyed, 195 suffered severe damage, and 1,263 were partially affected.
Unakoti district emerged as the worst-hit region, reporting damage to 518 houses, including 26 that were fully destroyed. Other districts also recorded significant losses, including North Tripura (136 houses), Dhalai (272), Sepahijala (250), Khowai (85), West Tripura (37), and South Tripura (236). No damage to houses was reported from Gomati district.
The storm uprooted trees, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted electricity supply, with at least 129 electric poles affected. Several roads were blocked due to fallen trees, although clearance operations have been completed in some areas.
Two persons were injured in Gomati district after a tree collapsed on them. Officials said all rivers in the state were flowing below danger levels despite heavy rainfall. The highest precipitation was recorded in Kamalpur subdivision of Dhalai district at 159 mm.
Even as Tripura grappled with the aftermath, neighbouring Mizoram remained on high alert due to continuing downpours and strong winds. Authorities ordered the closure of schools in five districts on April 29 as a precautionary measure.
Schools in Aizawl, Serchhip and Lunglei districts remained shut for a second consecutive day, while Hnahthial and Lawngtlai districts also suspended classes. Officials cited risks of landslides, mudflows, rockfalls and flash floods amid persistent rainfall.
According to the state disaster management department, more than 70 houses, along with several public buildings including schools and church halls, have been damaged since Monday. No casualties have been reported so far.
The India Meteorological Department said Aizawl recorded 57.8 mm rainfall in the past 24 hours. Other affected areas included Mamit, Khawzawl, Serchhip and Siaha districts.
The weather office has forecast continued heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and lightning across several parts of Mizoram till Friday. Wind speeds of 50-60 kmph are also expected in some areas, raising the likelihood of further disruptions.
Authorities in both states said restoration efforts are underway, with teams working to clear roads, restore power supply and assist affected residents, even as the region braces for more adverse weather.
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