Very Heavy Rainfall Alert in Himachal Pradesh has officials and residents on high alert as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns of unprecedented downpour and flash floods.

 

Introduction

In early July 2025, Himachal Pradesh has been hit by a powerful monsoon surge. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a very heavy rainfall alert, targeting 10 districts including Mandi, Kangra, Shimla, Kullu, and Sirmaur  . The Beas River in Mandi is now seriously swollen, revealing the urgent need for preparedness and action.

 

Overview of the IMD Alert

On July 3, the IMD issued an immediate red alert for numerous districts due to very heavy rainfall. This included forecasts of intense showers on July 5 and 7  . The alert warns about potential flash flooding, landslides, and swiftly rising river levels.

Between July 2 and July 8, the warnings extended to parts of Uttarakhand, East Rajasthan, Haryana, and Chandigarh  . Residents are being urged to stay vigilant and avoid riverbanks, steep slopes, and low-lying areas.

 

Flooding in Beas River Basin

Heavy rainfall has led to major flooding of the Beas River in the Mandi district, triggering grave concern among disaster-response teams  .

The Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA) reported that, despite the flooding, all dams in the Satluj, Beas, Ravi, and Yamuna basins are within safe operating limits as of July 2  . Controlled water releases and real-time monitoring have so far prevented dam overflow risks.

 

Impact on Infrastructure & Daily Life

• Roads and Bridges: Over 200 roads remain blocked, with thousands shut during peak flooding. Many bridges have been damaged or washed away  .

• Railways: The iconic Shimla–Kalka heritage railway operations have been temporarily halted due to track obstructions and landslide risk  .

• Power Supply: Power outages are widespread, with some areas experiencing intermittent electricity due to fallen lines and infrastructure damage  .

• Casualties & Missing Persons: In Mandi, over 11 individuals lost their lives, and 34 remain missing due to cloudbursts and flash floods.

  Officials are continuing rescue operations while conducting damage assessments  .

 

Government Response & Preparedness

PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh confirmed rescue and restoration efforts are active, using JCB machines, manpower, and essential supplies  . Singh added that state authorities are compiling extensive reports, seeking central assistance amid estimated losses amounting to several thousand crores over the past two years  .

Key measures include:

• Evacuations in flood- and landslide-prone areas

• Coordination between IMD, HPSDMA, and state-level officials

• Regular dam monitoring and regulated outflows

• Community advisories against venturing near rivers and hills during heavy rain

 

Future Outlook

IMD forecasts continuing heavy to very heavy showers across Himachal this week, especially on July 5 and 7  . With flood and landslide risks persisting, local administrations, tourists, and residents must take the alert seriously.

How to Stay Safe & Prepared

1. Avoid hazardous locations – especially riverbanks, ravines, and unstable slopes.

2. Monitor official updates from IMD, SDMA, and local authorities.

3. Prepare emergency kits with essentials like water, food, medicines, flashlights, and a portable radio.

4. Have evacuation plans and know local relief centres and helpline numbers.

5. Keep communication open with local community groups and family members for timely assistance.

 

Conclusion

The very heavy rainfall alert and Beas River flooding in Himachal Pradesh remind us of nature’s power during monsoon. With effective coordination between meteorological agencies, disaster management teams, and local communities, the aim is to protect lives and restore infrastructure swiftly.

Resilience, timely preparedness, and informed decision-making will be key in navigating this challenging weather. Stay alert, stay safe, and support recovery efforts.