Shimla, Aug 5,
The Hydromet Division of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Persistent Flash Flood Threat (PFFT) warning for specific areas in Kangra, Shimla, Chamba, Mandi and Sirmaur districts, Himachal Pradesh. This warning, valid until 11:30 IST on August 6, 2024, signals a low to moderate risk of flash floods. Regions with saturated soils and low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable, with expectations of surface runoff and inundation due to imminent rainfall.
” Low flash flood risk likely over few watersheds & neighborhoods of Kangra, Shimla, Chamba, Mandi and Sirmaur districts in Himachal Pradesh during next 24 hours,” quoted the IMD warning.
Additionally, the Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued a yellow alert for the state, predicting partly cloudy skies and reduced visibility in Shimla city. The monsoon is set to bring light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, to isolated locations in Hamirpur and Mandi districts. Similarly, Kangra and Bilaspur districts are likely to experience light to moderate rainfall, while light showers are anticipated in Una, Sirmaur, Shimla, Kullu, Chamba, and Kinnaur districts.
Rescue operations continue in the wake of recent monsoon-triggered disasters in Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla districts, where cloudbursts have caused significant damage. Around 45 people remain missing across three locations due to the devastating floods. Heavy machinery and approximately 100 personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), state police, home guards, and local administration are involved in an extensive effort to locate and retrieve bodies trapped under river sands, boulders, and rubble. Despite these relentless efforts, only five bodies were recovered in Shimla district over the past two days, and eight bodies were recovered in Mandi yesterday. Sadly, the likelihood of finding survivors is diminishing.
The search for the missing is further complicated by the widespread areas affected, with debris and rubble scattered across kilometers of riverbeds. NDRF teams are utilizing sniffer dogs to help locate bodies beneath the rubble.
With the monsoon continuing to impact the region, authorities are urging residents to stay alert and take necessary precautions for their safety. The combination of weather warnings and ongoing rescue operations highlights the severe impact of this year’s monsoon on Himachal Pradesh.
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