At least seven people have died following torrential rainfall overnight in the city of Guwahati in Assam State, northeast India. Three people from one family were killed and another injured when a landslide struck their home in the Bhangagarh area of the city late on Thursday 26 June 2014. Landslides are a common problem after severe weather events, as excess pore water pressure can overcome cohesion in soil and sediments, allowing them to flow like liquids. Approximately 90% of all landslides are caused by heavy rainfall. The remaining four people were all electrocuted in separate incidents.
Flooding in Guwahati on the morning of Friday 27 June 2014. Press Trust of India.
The city reportedly suffered 15 hours of continuous rainfall between Thursday 26 and Friday 27 June 2014, leading to flash flooding in several areas and widespread disruption. About half the city has suffered some degree of flooding. Guwahati has a humid subtropical climate with a distinct rainy season lasting from March to October. It typically receives over 1700 mm of rain per year, with June and July being the wettest months, receiving on average 316 and 345 mm of rain respectively.
The location of Guwahati. Google Maps.
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