Heavy rain alert till July 31 in Himachal; flash flood warning for several districts, 108 roads closed

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Shimla, July 28

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall across several parts of Himachal Pradesh till July 31 as the southwest monsoon remains active in the state. Authorities have warned of landslides, flash floods, waterlogging and a rise in the water level of rivers and streams during the period.

According to the Meteorological Center, Shimla, a flash flood warning has been issued for Chamba, Mandi, Kangra and Sirmaur districts on July 28. The warning has been extended to Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Kullu, Shimla, Sirmaur and Solan districts for July 29, where moderate flash flood risk has been forecast in vulnerable watersheds and low-lying areas.

The weather department has advised residents and tourists to avoid venturing near rivers, streams and landslide-prone areas and to follow the official weather advisories.

Heavy rainfall has already disrupted normal life across the state. According to official information, 108 roads remain closed due to landslides and rain-related damages, affecting transportation in several districts. The downpour has also impacted electricity and drinking water infrastructure, disrupting multiple power transformers and water supply schemes.

Meanwhile, residents of Shimla may face water shortages over the next few days. Water supply has been affected after a transformer failure at the Stage-II pumping station of the Satluj Water Supply Project, while heavy silt accumulation in other water sources has further hampered the water supply.

The administration has urged people to remain cautious as rainfall is expected to continue over the coming days, with the possibility of further disruptions in vulnerable areas.