Flash floods shut over 300 roads in Himachal, Shimla worst affected; IMD issues alert for several states
PTC Web Desk: Torrential rainfall across northern and eastern India has triggered flash floods, major road blockages, and severe waterlogging, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of more intense weather in the next 24 hours. In Himachal Pradesh, continuous downpours since Wednesday have wreaked havoc in Shimla and Lahaul-Spiti districts.
Cloudbursts and flash floods have caused widespread infrastructure damage, cutting off several remote areas. Over 300 roads, including two national highways, remain closed. A police post in Ganvi Ravine was swept away, and a bus stand in Shimla collapsed, damaging nearby shops.
In Lahaul-Spiti’s Mayad Valley, floods destroyed two bridges near Karpat, Changut, and Udgos Nala. Karpat village has been declared a critical zone, with residents shifted to safer places. Around 10 bighas of farmland have also been lost. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported so far, and relief operations are ongoing.
IMD flash flood risk across states
The IMD has issued a “low to moderate” flash flood risk alert for parts of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, Sikkim, and sub-Himalayan West Bengal. Heavy rain accompanied with lightning and thunder is very likely to occur at isolated places over Almora, Bageshwar, Chamoli, Champawat, Dehradun, Nainital, Pauri Garhwal, Pithoragarh, Rudra Prayag, Tehri Garhwal, Udham Singh Nagar, Uttar Kashi in the next few hours, says IMD, Uttarakhand.
Its national flash flood guidance bulletin forecasts up to 180 mm of rain in 24 hours in certain areas. With soil saturation levels between 85% and 99%, the risk of surface runoff and flooding has increased significantly.
High-risk districts include:
Himachal Pradesh: Shimla, Sirmaur
Uttarakhand: Dehradun, Nainital, Chamoli, Pithoragarh, and adjoining areas
Bihar: Araria, Kishanganj, Purnia, Supaul
Sikkim & North Bengal: Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, and all four districts of Sikkim
Regional meteorological centres in Delhi, Kolkata, Shimla, Dehradun, Patna, and Gangtok have been placed on high alert.
In Delhi, heavy showers early Thursday morning led to severe waterlogging and traffic gridlock in multiple parts of the city. The IMD has issued an ‘orange’ alert, cautioning residents of moderate to heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning throughout the day.
- With inputs from agencies
