July 7, 2025: Heavy monsoon rains have brought life to a standstill in Himachal Pradesh. Since June 20—the official onset of the monsoon—at least 78 people have lost their lives, while 31 are still missing, as per the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA).
Out of the total deaths, 50 were caused by natural calamities like landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts, while 28 people died in road accidents during the bad weather.
Why are rain-related deaths increasing?
The monsoon this year has been particularly aggressive. The continuous downpour is triggering frequent landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts, putting lives and property at risk.
The Mandi district is the worst affected, witnessing 10 major incidents related to cloudbursts and flash floods. Tragically, Mandi has also reported the highest number of rain-related deaths at 17, followed by Kangra with 11 deaths.
Here’s a breakdown of the causes of deaths due to rain-related incidents across the state:
- 14 due to flash floods
- 8 by drowning
- 8 from electrocution or accidental falls
- Others due to landslides, lightning, and snake bites
Other districts affected include:
- Kullu – 3 deaths
- Chamba – 3 deaths
- Shimla – 3 deaths
- Chamba also recorded the highest number of deaths from road accidents (6), followed by Bilaspur, Kullu, and Kangra.
Not just lives, but livelihoods too have taken a hit
The rain fury hasn’t spared infrastructure either. According to SDMA’s latest data:
- 269 roads are blocked
- 285 electricity transformers have been damaged
- 278 water supply schemes are disrupted
The estimated total loss to public and private property is over ₹57 crore.
Apart from this, several homes, cowsheds, crops, schools, and healthcare facilities have also been badly damaged or destroyed.
IMD issues Orange Alert: More rain on the way
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an “orange alert” for heavy to very heavy rain in multiple districts of Himachal Pradesh for Monday and Tuesday. There’s a high risk of landslides and flash floods, and people are being strongly advised to stay away from water bodies and hilly terrains.
In response, NDRF and SDRF teams have been deployed in high-risk areas, especially in Mandi and Kullu, where search and rescue operations are still ongoing.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and locals are urged to remain alert and follow weather advisories strictly.