Himachal Pradesh is experiencing heavy rainfall and an intense monsoon devastation. The district of Mandi is reported as the worst-hit region in the state with heavy rainfall for more than the last 48 hours has triggered a series of cloudbursts and flash floods.

Large-scale rescue operations are underway.As per the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Mandi is under a red alert. Continued rainfall is predicted across Mandi, Shimla, Kullu, Kangra, and Sirmaur. As per local reports, Mandi has experienced 10 different cloudburst incidents which have claimed lives of at least 10 people. More than 30 individuals have gone missing under the sad circumstances.In addition to these regions, Karsog, Dharampur, Gohar, and Jogindernagar have also come under the wrath of monsoon rains.

Rivers in the state including the Beas, Suketi, and Jayuni Khad are overflowing. One of the worst-affected regions was the Pandoh Dam, which was forced to release 157,000 cusecs of water.Because of torrential rain, over 259 roads across Himachal Pradesh remain blocked, including 129 in Mandi alone. The authorities, with help of the National and State Disaster Response Forces (NDRF and SDRF), have evacuated more than 300 people from flooded regions.

Schools and colleges across Mandi, Hamirpur, and Kangra districts remain closed.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has closely looked into the present situation. He has directed teams to prioritise rescue operations and accelerate aid distribution. He said, “Our first priority is to ensure the safety of our citizens and restore essential services.” The minister has also requested people to avoid travel to high-risk zones, especially riverbanks and landslide-prone regions.The IMD has predicted continued moderate to heavy rainfall in the region till July 8. Flash flood warnings remain in effect, and travelers are strongly advised to postpone non-essential journeys to and through affected districts.

The natural events are a reminder of the Himalayan region's vulnerability during the monsoon. As the state starts recovery efforts, the government faces the challenge of rebuilding amid continued weather-related issues.Travel Advisory for travellers:Travellers are advised to avoid non-essential travel to Mandi. Stay updated on weather alerts issued by the IMD and Himachal Pradesh Disaster Management Authority.