Himachal Pradesh faces a challenging week ahead as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall across multiple districts until August 14, 2025. With the monsoon already claiming 224 lives and disrupting infrastructure, including 334 closed roads, the state is on high alert for landslides, flash floods, and waterlogging. Recent tragedies in Bilaspur and Kinnaur underscore the urgency, while flood-like conditions in Kangra add to the crisis. Wise Himachal brings you the latest weather predictions and safety tips to navigate this monsoon mayhem.

Weather Forecast: Orange and Yellow Alerts

The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has warned of intensified rainfall over the next four days, with an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rain (64.5-204.4 mm in 24 hours) in the following districts:

August 11-12: Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi.
August 13: Kangra, Mandi, and Sirmaur.
August 14: Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur.

A yellow alert, indicating moderate rain with potential for localized disruptions, applies to other districts. From August 15 to 17, yellow alerts persist across several areas, with risks of thunderstorms and lightning. Recent data shows significant rainfall in the past 24 hours, including Ghagus (Bilaspur) at 61.0 mm, Bilaspur at 50.2 mm, Sarahan at 30.0 mm, Murari Devi at 28.6 mm, Malrwan at 19.2 mm, Slapper at 18.9 mm, Dehra Gopipur at 16.0 mm, and Dharamshala at 14.8 mm. Shimla’s weather remains overcast, with rainfall 35% above normal this August, per IMD records.

Recent Monsoon Impacts

The monsoon’s toll continues to mount. On Sunday, a landslide near Kanfara in Bilaspur killed Kulwinder Singh from Bathinda, Punjab, returning from Naina Devi Temple, with another person injured. In Kinnaur, Kolkata pilgrim Suraj Das died during the Kinner Kailash Yatra due to harsh weather. Since June 20, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) reports 224 deaths (116 from road accidents, 108 from rain-related incidents), 316 injuries, and 36 missing persons. Infrastructure damage includes 334 closed roads (189 in Mandi, 91 in Kullu), 91 power transformers, and 479 water supply schemes. A debris-induced artificial lake near Kumarhatti in Nalagarh and falling boulders in Kullu’s Sainj threaten local communities.

Flood-like conditions have emerged in Kangra’s Mand area due to water releases from Pong Dam, with water entering homes near the Punjab border. The district administration rescued 16 people, but residents are urged to avoid riverbanks. Total losses are estimated at ₹1,98,923.75 lakh, with 2,351 homes and shops and 1,946 cowsheds damaged.

Safety Tips for Residents and Travelers

With heavy rainfall forecast, here’s how to stay safe:

Avoid Risky Areas: Steer clear of landslide-prone zones, riverbanks, and low-lying areas, especially in Mandi, Kullu, and Kangra.
Monitor Alerts: Follow IMD updates via radio, TV, or www.wisehimachal.com for real-time weather advisories.
Travel Cautiously: With 334 roads closed, check HRTC or SDMA updates before traveling. The Ravana-Shimla four-lane is operational, but local roads may be blocked.
Emergency Preparedness: Keep emergency kits ready, including food, water, and flashlights, in case of power or water disruptions.
Community Support: Report hazards (e.g., falling boulders in Sainj) to local authorities and assist neighbors in vulnerable areas.

The SDMA and State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) are coordinating rescue and restoration efforts. District administrations in Mandi, Kullu, and Kangra are evacuating at-risk areas, such as a house near Kumarhatti’s artificial lake. The government urges residents to follow weather alerts and avoid unnecessary travel.