Himachal weather: Four-day orange alert issued for heavy rain in five districts

TNR News Network
Shimla:
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted another spell of inclement weather in Himachal Pradesh, issuing an orange alert for heavy rainfall across five districts from August 23 to 26. The alert covers Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla and Sirmaur, while a yellow alert remains in effect for August 22 and August 27.

According to the latest bulletin from the Shimla Meteorological Centre, the wet spell is expected to continue across various parts of the state until August 27, with intensified rainfall over the next four days. The situation is particularly concerning as the state reels under the impact of recent torrential rains.

In the last 12 hours alone, several areas in the state recorded significant rainfall. Una received a record-breaking 152.6 mm rainfall, followed by Nangal Dam (101.2 mm), Shri Naina Devi (54.6 mm), Sujanpur Tira (53 mm) and several other towns, including Amb, Olinda, Nadaun, and Rohru registering substantial precipitation.

Monsoon havoc: 280 dead, Rs 2,281 crore losses suffered

The ongoing monsoon season has unleashed widespread devastation in Himachal Pradesh. According to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), 280 people have lost their lives and 37 remain missing since the onset of the monsoon on June 20. Rain-related incidents have also left 342 people injured.

The damage to property and infrastructure has been severe as 2,791 homes have been completely destroyed. As many as 345 roads, including one national highway, are currently closed while 327 power transformers and 130 drinking water schemes are non-functional. The total estimated loss has crossed Rs 2,281 crore, with authorities noting that nearly half of the fatalities have occurred in road accidents.

Mandi district on edge

Already grappling with severe damage, Mandi district faces heightened concerns following the fresh alert. The Chandigarh-Manali National Highway, a critical route for commuters and goods transport, continues to face repeated closures due to landslides and debris flow, causing daily disruptions.

As heavy rains are forecast to continue, officials have urged residents and commuters to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel and stay updated through official channels.