Himachal Rain Alert: Orange Alert Issued for 4 Districts as Landslides Block 134 Roads; IMD Warns of Flash Floods
Heavy monsoon rains across Himachal Pradesh have triggered widespread landslides and flash floods, crippling infrastructure and disrupting transport networks. According to the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC), a total of 134 roads have been blocked for vehicular traffic, while 35 water supply schemes and 78 electricity transformers remain severely impacted.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Shimla Centre has issued an Orange Alert for four districts, predicting intense rainfall spells between July 28 and July 30.
Flash Flood Risks and District-Wise Road Closure Breakup
The weather office warned of low to moderate flash flood risks in low-lying and saturated soil areas across seven districts, including Chamba, Kangra, Kinnaur, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur.
District-Wise Road Closure Statistics:
Mandi: 58 roads closed
Kullu: 33 roads closed
Chamba: 14 roads closed
Sirmaur: 12 roads closed
Shimla: 7 roads closed
Kangra: 5 roads closed
Lahaul & Spiti: 4 roads closed
Una: 1 road closed
In a tragic incident, 13 people lost their lives in Lahaul-Spiti when their vehicle was buried under a massive landslide triggered by continuous downpours.
Precipitation Data and Public Health Advisory
Dharamshala recorded the highest rainfall in the state at 80.5 mm, followed by Palampur (62 mm), Berthin (50.7 mm), and Mandi (39.8 mm). Weather models indicate that the wet spell will persist across the state through July 31.
Boiled Water Advisory Issued by Shimla Authorities:
Due to rising turbidity in natural water sources during the monsoon season, the Shimla Jal Prabandhan Nigam Limited (SJPNL) issued a health advisory urging citizens to boil drinking water for at least 10 minutes to prevent waterborne infections such as jaundice, cholera, and gastrointestinal illnesses caused by bacteria and parasites.
Himachal Pradesh Monsoon Status Overview
| Parameter | Current Status / Data |
|---|---|
| Road Blockades Total | 134 Roads across 8 Districts |
| IMD Weather Alert | Orange Alert (July 28 – July 30) |
| Flash Flood Warning Districts | Chamba, Kangra, Kinnaur, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur |
| Highest Rainfall Recorded | Dharamshala (80.5 mm) |
| Utility Disruptions | 35 Water Supply Schemes, 78 Power Transformers |
