Flash Floods Devastate Himachal Pradesh: Cloudbursts Trigger Widespread Destruction

Himachal Pradesh faced severe flash floods caused by multiple cloudbursts, primarily affecting Kullu and Kangra districts. The torrential rains led to swollen rivers, including the Beas and Parvati, sweeping away homes, bridges, and vehicles. At least five people have been confirmed dead, with over a dozen others missing, including workers at a hydroelectric project near Dharamshala.

In Kullu’s Sainj Valley, flash floods damaged houses, a school, and agricultural land, with three people reported missing after being swept away by the Jeeva Nallah. Similar incidents were reported in Manali, Banjar, and Gadsa areas, where infrastructure, including roads and bridges, suffered significant damage. Videos circulating online show raging waters carrying debris, vehicles, and even a truck, highlighting the flood’s intensity.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall across several districts, including Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, and Solan, warning of continued risks of flash floods and landslides until June 30. Rescue operations by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local authorities are ongoing, with efforts focused on tracing missing individuals. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has confirmed the damages and urged caution near rivers.

Local accounts describe the sudden onset of floods, with residents woken by roaring waters around 2:30 a.m. The government has advised tourists and locals to avoid unnecessary travel, and hydropower projects are on high alert to monitor reservoir levels. The disaster underscores the increasing risks of extreme weather in the Himalayan region, prompting calls for enhanced safety measures.