By [Timeline Treasures] | July 7, 2025
Himachal Pradesh is battling nature’s fury as torrential rains and flash floods wreak havoc, leaving behind a trail of destruction. Since the monsoon onset on June 20, the hill state has witnessed 78 deaths — 50 from rain-related incidents and 28 in road accidents — with dozens more injured or missing.
What was once a serene landscape is now scarred by tragedy. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has reported 23 flash floods, 19 cloudbursts, and 16 landslides as of July 6. The toll continues to rise, and thousands of lives hang in uncertainty.
One of the most heartbreaking stories has emerged from Thunag in Mandi district, where the Himachal Cooperative Bank, a financial lifeline for over 8,000 residents, lies in ruins. The ground floor was completely submerged and destroyed, and the fate of cash, documents, and valuables — including jewelry worth lakhs — remains unknown.
“Everything is gone — cash, papers, lockers. It was the only bank we had,” lamented local trader Hari Mohan.
Locals, fearing looting, are standing vigil. With power lines down, water supplies disrupted, and roads cut off, the town is isolated and vulnerable.
Across Himachal, 243 roads, including two national highways, are shut. 278 electricity transformers are down, and 261 water projects are non-functional. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Sirmaur, Kangra, and Mandi, warning of very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning through July 9.
Uttarakhand On Edge: Landslide Alert in 4 Districts
As Himachal struggles, neighboring Uttarakhand braces for disaster. The Geological Survey of India has issued a landslide warning for Tehri, Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, and Chamoli from July 7–8.
In response, state authorities have activated full emergency protocols. All district magistrates, police, and disaster response teams are on alert. Tourist movement to high Himalayan regions has been restricted, and emergency equipment like JCBs and Pokland machines are on standby.
“We’ve directed all officials to remain in their respective areas, keep communication lines open, and avoid switching off phones for the next 48 hours,” said an SEOC official.
The hill states’ dual dilemma has brought attention to how vulnerable ecologically delicate areas are to severe weather. The goal of rescue and relief operations is still to save lives and restore vital services.
Important Updates:
There are 78 dead and 37 missing in Himachal.
243 highways were closed, the water and electricity supplies were interrupted, the Himachal Cooperative Bank in Mandi sustained significant damage, and ten districts received red and orange rain advisories.
Four districts in Uttarakhand are on a landslide alert.
What You Can Do:
Unless required, stay away from Himachal and Uttarakhand.
Pay attention to local authorities’ updates and weather advisories.
Participate in legitimate disaster assistance initiatives.