Flash floods hit Himachal, 300 roads closed; waterlogging in Delhi

By Tribune Web Desk (Tribune India), Chandigarh, Aug 14: Heavy rainfall across northern and eastern India has triggered flashfloods, road closures, and widespread waterlogging, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of further intense weather over the next 24 hours.

In Himachal Pradesh, relentless rain has caused severe disruption, particularly in Shimla and Lahaul and Spiti districts. Cloudbursts and flash floods since Wednesday have damaged infrastructure and cut off access to several remote areas:

Over 300 roads, including two National Highways, have been closed.

A bus stand collapsed in Shimla, damaging nearby shops.

In Lahaul and Spiti, flash floods in the Mayad Valley destroyed two bridges near Karpat, Changut, and Udgos Nala.

Karpat village has been declared critical, with residents moved to safer locations. Around 10 bighas of farmland have been lost to the floods.

No casualties have been reported so far. Relief and rescue operations are ongoing.

IMD flash flood alert across multiple 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.

According to the IMD’s national flash flood guidance bulletin:

Up to 180 mm of rain is expected in some areas within 24 hours.

Soil saturation in affected regions has reached between 85% and 99%, increasing the likelihood of surface runoff and flooding.

High-risk districts include:

Himachal Pradesh: Shimla, Sirmaur

Uttarakhand: Dehradun, Nainital, Chamoli, Pithoragarh, and others

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 alert.

Delhi was hit by early morning rainfall on Thursday, causing severe waterlogging and traffic disruption across the city. The IMD issued an 'orange' alert, urging residents to be prepared for more moderate to heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning during the day.

(With inputs from agencies)