Monsoon situation turns grim in HP, IMD flags flash flood risk in 7 district
Shimla, July 25
The monsoon situation in Himachal Pradesh is becoming increasingly grim as persistent rainfall has saturated the soil across many parts of the state, raising the risk of flash floods, landslides and surface runoff in vulnerable areas of the North West Himalayan region.
The latest National Flash Flood Guidance Bulletin issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has identified Himachal Pradesh among the major areas of concern in the North West Himalayan region, along with Uttarakhand. The bulletin states that a few watersheds and neighbourhoods in Himachal Pradesh fall within the area of concern due to recent rainfall and saturated catchments, while weather models indicate the possibility of very heavy rainfall of up to 198 mm during the next 24 hours over parts of the affected region.
Although no flash flood threat was observed during the previous six hours and none is expected over the next six hours, the IMD has projected a low to moderate flash flood risk during the next 24 hours for watersheds and neighbouring areas in Chamba, Kangra, Kinnaur, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla and Sirmaur districts. The bulletin warns that surface runoff and inundation may occur in areas with fully saturated soils and low-lying locations if the forecast rainfall materialises.
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The advisory comes as repeated spells of rain have weakened hill slopes and damaged roads across the state, increasing the likelihood of landslides, slope failures and flash floods. With rivers, streams and seasonal nullahs carrying high discharge, authorities have urged residents and tourists to avoid vulnerable locations, particularly riverbanks, low-lying areas and landslide-prone stretches, and to follow official weather and disaster management advisories until the monsoon activity subsides.
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