Current Situation: Himachal Pradesh Monsoon Crisis and Orange Alert
Himachal Pradesh is currently grappling with severe monsoon fury. The region has been placed under an orange alert by the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall in multiple districts between July 21 and July 23.
The warning applies to districts like Mandi, Shimla, Solan, Kangra, and Sirmaur, the yellow alert being issued for some on July 20. The forecast says with a high degree of certainty landslides, flash floods, mudslides will take place; this has been worrying the local population and travelers alike.
Key Facts of Orange Alert
Death Toll and Injuries: Since the onset of the monsoon on June 20, at least 116 people have died, of which 68 deaths are rain-related (due to landslides, flash floods, cloudbursts, and electrocution). 48 deaths have been reported from road accidents linked to the hazardous weather. Around 200 people are injured and 35 are missing.
Road Blockages: More than 230 roads are blocked following landslides, with Mandi, Sirmaur, and Kullu districts being the worst hit. The restoration work is, however, being adversely affected by the ongoing rainfall.
Power & Water Disruption: As more than 80 power transformers and 60 water supply schemes failed, the situation was considerably worsened in the affected areas.
Monetary Losses: So far, the damages caused due to collapse of infrastructures, public utilities, and in agriculture have gone beyond Rs 1,200 crores.
Other places with heavy rains are Sirmaur, Kangra, Una, and Shimla.
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Current Impact Table
Governmental Actions & Public Advisory
Disaster Response: District disaster management teams on high alert. The state government coordinates with central agencies for relief and restoration, compensation being paid to families who suffered losses and damages.
Pilgrimages and Other Events: Kinnar Kailash Yatra and other public gatherings have been kept on hold due to safety chirpings.
Weather Trends: This month, Mandi district received a maximum rainfall of 357.7 mm, which stands at 76 percent above the normal rainfall in July.
Public Appeal: Residents are advised to strictly follow weather advisories, avoid traveling in risky zones, and look out for alerts before setting on any journey. Emergency services are actively tracking the evolving weather conditions and rendering rescue operations.
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Conclusion
Himland remains still impatient as the monsoon spreads havoc. With more predictions of heavy rains ahead, an orange alert calls for immediate caution. Residents and travelers should keep themselves updated with the latest advisories and should steer clear from any high-risk zones until things calm down.
