Shimla, Aug 23,
The monsoon season in Himachal Pradesh has been particularly unforgiving this year, with the state reeling from back-to-back calamities that have claimed nearly 200 lives and caused property damage estimated at ₹1,500 crore. The state capital, Shimla, has been among the worst affected, with massive landslides burying key roads under rubble and debris, making them impassable. Two rain shelters in the town have vanished over the past three days, and two main roads have been severely disrupted by landslides, exacerbating the crisis.
On July 31 and August 1, the state witnessed a catastrophic event where around 55 people were killed. A relentless rescue operation ensued, stretching for 22 days, during which 40 bodies were recovered from the debris or found floating in a dam, approximately 50 kilometers downstream. The state government finally decided to ease off the rescue operation on August 22, after the chances of finding more survivors diminished significantly. Fifteen bodies remain unaccounted for, leaving the families of the victims with little hope of closure.
Despite the temporary respite brought by subdued rainfall over the last three days, allowing authorities to begin restoring roadways, power lines, and water supply schemes, the threat of further monsoon fury looms large. According to the latest updates from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), only a few areas experienced rain in the last 24 hours. However, the IMD has issued warnings of heavy rainfall and potential flash floods in several parts of the state, urging residents to remain vigilant.
The forecast for the next two weeks remains a concern for Himachal Pradesh. While the state is likely to experience ‘normal’ to ‘above normal’ rainfall next week, the intensity of rain is expected to taper off in the subsequent week. The monsoon trough at mean sea level currently passes through several regions, including Bikaner and Sikar, and extends southeastwards to the Bay of Bengal, posing a persistent threat to the already vulnerable landscape of Himachal Pradesh.
Weather Outlook
The IMD has advised caution, particularly for those residing in vulnerable areas prone to landslides and flash floods. The weather warnings for the coming days highlight the likelihood of thunderstorms, heavy rain, and lightning at isolated places, particularly in districts like Shimla, Kangra, Mandi, and Kullu. Residents are urged to monitor weather updates closely, avoid travel to susceptible areas, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety as the monsoon season progresses.
Forecast (Aug 23 – Aug 29)
– Aug 23-25: Light rain at isolated places; thunderstorm and lightning expected on Aug 25.
– Aug 26-29: Heavy rain and thunderstorms likely at isolated to many places, with the intensity peaking on Aug 28.
Himachal Pradesh remains on high alert as it continues to deal with the aftermath of the monsoon’s destructive power, with recovery and preparedness efforts ongoing.
Empower Independent Journalism – Join Us Today!
Dear Reader,
We’re committed to unbiased, in-depth journalism that uncovers truth and gives voice to the unheard. To sustain our mission, we need your help. Your contribution, no matter the size, fuels our research, reporting, and impact.
Stand with us in preserving independent journalism’s integrity and transparency. Support free press, diverse perspectives, and informed democracy.
Click [here] to join and be part of this vital endeavour.
Thank you for valuing independent journalism.
Warmly,
Vishal Sarin, Editor
