Impact Level: Warning

Locations Affected: Himachal Pradesh, India

Tracking Id: RINTP3180246610

Description:

As per reports, amid the severe weather conditions across Himachal Pradesh, following are the updates as of Saturday (02 August) –

• The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) has stated that 383 roads remain blocked, 747 distribution transformers (DTRs) have been disrupted, and 249 water supply schemes are down due to rain-triggered damage.
• National Highways (NH) like NH-305, NH-505, NH-21, and NH-03 remain inaccessible due to landslides and debris. Several interior roads in districts like Chamba, Kullu, Mandi, and Una remain inaccessible, further impeding rescue and repair operations.
• The most affected districts in terms of public utility damage are –
• Chamba: 89 roads blocked, 171 DTRs down, 93 water schemes disrupted.
• Kullu: 67 roads blocked (including NHs), 188 power feeders disrupted.
• Mandi: 181 roads blocked, 82 power lines down, 186 water schemes affected.
• Una: Three roads blocked, 205 DTRs down, 26 water schemes affected.
• Critical stretch of highways in Lahaul-Spiti have remained closed. NH-505 continues to remain closed near Chhatru. NH-305 in Kullu also remains blocked at Jhed (Khanag) due to landslides.
• The India Meteorological Department has issued yellow alert for heavy rainfall in parts of the state on Saturday (02 August). Affected districts are Mandi, Bilaaspur, Solan, Shimla, Sirmaur. While Nowcast has issued a statewide yellow alert for light to moderate rainfall.

Impact:

Sustained rainfall and winds may continue to impede recovery operations. Power outages due to downed power lines and infrastructural damage is likely to prevail. Further, flash floods on important roads, highways, and bridges canot be ruled out while essential transport services may experience continued disruptions.

Recommendations:

Avoid traveling to areas prone to flooding and landslides. If travel is necessary, exercise caution and be prepared for potential road closures or detours. Prepare for possible power outages by arranging for adequate backups and charging all electronic devices.

Passengers expected to board flights are advised to connect with respective airlines and remain abreast of the updated schedule before leaving for the airport. It is also advised to account for additional travel time as rainfall induced waterlogging may lead to slow vehicular movement along highways and lead to travel delays. Advised to follow the website of India Meteorological Department (IMD) to remain informed on weather updates in Himachal Pradesh: https://mausam.imd.gov.in/shimla/.

Sources:
• https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/himachal-reels-under-monsoon-fury-383-roads-747-power-feeders-249-water-schemes-hit-173-dead/articleshow/123057920.cms?from=mdr
• https://mausam.imd.gov.in/imd_latest/contents/districtwise-warning_mc.php?id=3
• https://mausam.imd.gov.in/imd_latest/contents/districtwisewarnings_mc.php?id=3