Himachal Pradesh has been placed on high alert after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in several districts. Authorities have activated emergency response teams and urged people to avoid unnecessary travel as the state braces for another intense spell of monsoon rain.
Which Districts Are Under Red Alert?
The IMD has issued a red alert for Monday (July 20) in Chamba, Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur districts. For Tuesday (July 21), the red alert has been extended to Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi and Sirmaur, where extremely heavy rainfall is expected.
What Happened In Kinnaur?
Heavy rainfall triggered a flash flood in the Rakchham area of Kinnaur district, blocking the Sangla-Chitkul road near the ITBP camp at Mastarang. The flood caused significant soil erosion and road damage. However, officials confirmed that no casualties have been reported so far.
How Much Rain Has The State Received?
Several parts of Himachal Pradesh recorded heavy rainfall since Saturday evening. Some of the highest rainfall figures include:
•   Dharamshala – 82.2 mm
•   Kangra – 57.9 mm
•   Paonta Sahib – 33 mm
•   Palampur – 27.1 mm
•   Bhattiyat – 22.2 mm
•   Jot – 20 mm
According to the IMD, very heavy rainfall refers to 115.6 mm to 204.5 mm of rain in 24 hours, while extremely heavy rainfall means rainfall exceeding 204.5 mm in a day.
What Steps Have Authorities Taken?
Chief Secretary Kamlesh Kumar Pant has directed all Deputy Commissioners to keep district emergency operation centres functional round the clock. Officials have also been instructed to identify areas vulnerable to landslides, flash floods and cloudbursts while ensuring that emergency response teams remain fully prepared. Quick Response Teams (QRTs), SDRF, NDRF, police, Home Guards, fire services and ambulance teams have been kept on standby. Authorities are also reviewing contingency plans and ensuring adequate stocks of food, drinking water, medicines and other essential supplies.
What Advisory Has Been Issued For Residents?
The state government has advised people to avoid unnecessary travel during the heavy rainfall period. Residents have also been asked to stay away from rivers, streams, nallahs, flooded roads and landslide-prone areas. People should avoid crossing overflowing bridges and follow official weather advisories. In case of emergencies, citizens can contact the state emergency helpline 1070 or the district emergency helpline 1077.
The warning comes nearly three years after the devastating monsoon of 2023, when prolonged heavy rainfall triggered landslides and flash floods across Himachal Pradesh, resulting in more than 550 deaths and widespread destruction.
