Shimla: Heavy monsoon showers continued to batter Himachal Pradesh, triggering landslides, flash floods and widespread disruption in several districts, particularly Kinnaur, where debris blocked a national highway and damaged vehicles. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for parts of the state, warning that the spell of heavy rain is likely to persist.
In Kinnaur district, a landslide near Choling sent large quantities of debris onto the National Highway, burying two vehicles and bringing traffic to a halt. Public Works Department (PWD) teams have been deployed to clear the route and restore connectivity.
Residents of Ribba village also experienced anxious moments after a flash flood struck the area around 3 am. The sudden surge of water prompted many families to rush outdoors, while others hurried to move parked vehicles away from vulnerable locations.
Officials said the state has recorded rainfall far above the seasonal average over the past two days, increasing the risk of landslides, flooding and damage to infrastructure. Authorities are closely monitoring vulnerable regions as weather conditions remain unstable.
The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall at isolated places in Kangra and Mandi districts on Thursday, while a Yellow Alert has been issued for Kullu, Shimla, Sirmaur and Una districts. Meteorologists have also indicated that another active western disturbance is expected to strengthen the monsoon system over the weekend.
According to the weather department, July 5 and July 6 could witness another round of widespread rainfall across the mid-hill and lower regions of the state. Residents have been advised to remain alert and follow official advisories.
The ongoing downpour has also disrupted essential services. Government data showed that 49 roads remain closed due to landslides and debris, while dozens of power transformers have gone out of service, affecting electricity supply in several areas. Drinking water schemes have also been impacted in some districts.
Meanwhile, the rainfall has brought a noticeable fall in temperatures across Himachal Pradesh. Several towns reported daytime temperatures significantly below normal, offering relief from the summer heat but also highlighting the intensity of the ongoing weather system.
The state administration has appealed to residents and tourists to avoid travelling through landslide-prone areas and stay away from rivers, streams and overflowing drains. Disaster management teams have been placed on alert as authorities continue restoration work and monitor weather developments across the hill state.
