Torrential rains and subsequent flooding and landslides have wreaked havoc across Northeast India, resulting in a tragic loss of life and widespread displacement. As of June 2, 2025, reports indicate that at least 36 people have died, and over 550,000 have been affected across several states in the region. The states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, and Tripura are bearing the brunt of this natural disaster.
Assam is the worst-hit state, with over 535,000 people impacted across 22 districts. The death toll in Assam has risen to 11. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has visited some of the worst-affected areas, assuring residents of the government's full support and relief measures. Numerous rivers in the state are flowing above the danger mark, exacerbating the flood situation.
Arunachal Pradesh has also suffered significant losses, with 10 reported fatalities. Incessant monsoon rains continue to lash the state, causing major rivers to overflow. According to the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC), nearly a thousand people have been affected across numerous villages. The Governor has expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and urged residents to remain vigilant, especially in vulnerable areas.
Meghalaya has reported six deaths due to landslides, flash floods, and power disruptions. Rescue operations are underway to assist those stranded in remote areas. Mizoram has also been severely affected, with at least five people, including Myanmarese refugees, losing their lives due to landslides and house collapses. All schools across Mizoram were closed on Monday due to the heavy rain, which has triggered landslides, mudslides, rockfalls, and waterlogging.
In Sikkim, 34 people were evacuated from landslide-hit Chhaten by helicopters. Approximately 1,600 tourists were rescued from the Lachung area amid floods. However, the search for at least eight missing tourists has been suspended due to rising water levels in the Teesta river. Tripura has opened multiple relief camps sheltering thousands of people. Agartala, the state capital, has received substantial rainfall, and the government has deployed rescue teams to assist in relief efforts.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier forecast below-normal rainfall for Northeast India during the monsoon season, even as much of the country is expected to receive above-normal precipitation. The early onset of the southwest monsoon has further contributed to the crisis, leading to severe flooding and landslides.
The geographical and climatic factors of Northeast India make it particularly vulnerable to floods. The region's hilly terrain and steep slopes facilitate rapid runoff during heavy rains, leading to flash floods and landslides. The area receives substantial monsoon rainfall, often exceeding the land's absorption capacity. Major rivers like the Brahmaputra and Barak, along with their tributaries, frequently overflow during the monsoon season. Deforestation and land-use changes have also reduced natural vegetation cover, diminishing the land's ability to absorb rainwater.
The current situation highlights the urgent need for continued rescue and relief efforts, as well as long-term strategies to mitigate the impact of floods and landslides in Northeast India.
