Himachal Pradesh Battles Devastating Monsoon: 219 Dead, Orange Alert Issued

The Indian state of Himachal Pradesh continues to grapple with the catastrophic impact of relentless monsoon rains. The death toll has tragically climbed to 219 since June 20th, with the state facing an estimated ₹1,988 crore (approximately $240 million USD) in infrastructure damage. This unprecedented devastation has left over 300 roads impassable, severely disrupting transportation and access to essential services.

Looking ahead, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for the next four days, warning of continued heavy rainfall and the potential for further landslides and flooding. Authorities are urging residents to remain extremely cautious, particularly those in high-risk areas. Rescue and restoration efforts are underway, but the scale of the destruction presents a significant challenge.

The IMD’s warning underscores the ongoing threat posed by the monsoon season and serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the region to extreme weather events. The situation continues to evolve, and updates will be provided as they become available.