Himachal Pradesh Hit by Rain Fury: Cloudburst and Flash Floods Claim Lives, Over 20 Feared Swept Away

Torrential rains triggered a series of cloudbursts and flash floods across parts of Himachal Pradesh, leaving at least two people dead and over 20 feared swept away in separate incidents across the Kullu and Kangra districts. The violent weather comes amid intensifying monsoon weather, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing alerts for more heavy rain across the state.In Kullu district, roads, bridges, and school buildings were damaged due to flash flooding, with three people reported missing. Several homes have been inundated or destroyed.

Cloudburst Strikes, Rivers Swell

A sudden cloudburst near Kangra district triggered a deluge along the Manuni Khad. Two bodies were recovered from this area, while approximately 15–20 workers, resting at a nearby hydroelectric project site, were washed away. Meanwhile, Kullu witnessed severe flooding , at least three people are reported missing after rivers breached embankments, damaging homes.The swelling of rivers like the Beas and Sutlej has worsened the situation, with swollen currents sweeping vehicles and threatening infrastructure in towns such as Manali, Banjar, and Manikaran Valley.

Flash Floods Disrupt Lives and Infrastructure

With rivers like the Beas and Sutlej flowing well above danger levels, flash floods have cut off key roads and submerged agricultural fields. Schools in affected regions have been closed, and transport services suspended. In Kullu district, visuals showed powerful currents tearing through towns like Banjar and Manikaran, with debris blocking major routes. Landslides triggered by heavy rain further complicated relief efforts.

Human Stories from the Ground

Villagers in the Rehla and Sainj valleys recounted the night of terror as floodwaters suddenly engulfed their homes. There was no time to escape. We just grabbed our kids and ran, said a survivor from Rehla village. Local rescue teams are still searching for laborers believed to be trapped under mud and debris.

Flash Floods Hit Himachal, Rescue Efforts Underway Amid Heavy Rain Alert

The devastating cloudbursts and flash floods in Himachal Pradesh are a sobering reminder of how vulnerable our hill states are to the intensifying monsoon patterns and the effects of climate change. As search and rescue teams race against time, the immediate focus remains on saving lives and restoring critical infrastructure. But beyond the current emergency, this disaster underlines the urgent need for sustainable planning, early warning systems, and stronger community awareness in ecologically sensitive zones. Himachal’s resilience will be tested in the days ahead , and how we respond today will shape how we protect lives tomorrow.