Himachal Pradesh faced a significant weather event early Tuesday morning when a cloudburst triggered a flash flood in Kullu district. The deluge swept away a footbridge and three makeshift sheds, including a liquor shop, in the Tosh Nallah area of Manikaran. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported, according to Deputy Commissioner of Kullu, Torul S. Raveesh.
Emergency response teams have been dispatched to the site to assess the damage. "We urge everyone to avoid rivers and rivulets and to refrain from setting up temporary structures near nallahs," Raveesh advised. She also emphasized that construction work is prohibited during the monsoon season and warned of strict enforcement against violators.
The local meteorological office has issued an 'orange' alert for heavy to very heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning across seven districts in the state for Wednesday and Thursday. Additionally, a 'yellow' alert has been issued for isolated heavy rain on August 2 and 3.
The forecast predicts intensified monsoon activity with widespread precipitation over the next four to five days. Heavy rainfall is expected in Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur districts. The weather office has also warned of potential landslides and flash floods in vulnerable areas, which could damage plantations, crops, and weak structures due to strong winds and waterlogging.
Meanwhile, light rain has been observed in various parts of the state. The Meteorological Centre in Shimla reported rainfall totals since Monday evening: Sarahan and Rohru each received 12 mm, Sangrah 10 mm, Jogindernagar 8 mm, Sainj 6.5 mm, Manali 6 mm, Rampur 5.8 mm, Dharamshala 5.4 mm, and Gohar 5 mm.
According to official data, rain-related incidents have claimed 62 lives since the start of the monsoon season on June 27. The state has incurred damages amounting to Rs 425 crore so far, as reported by the state emergency operation centre.
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