Dozens missing following flash floods and landslides in Himachal Pradesh

Dozens missing following flash floods and landslides in Himachal Pradesh
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Himachal Pradesh, a mountainous state in northern India, is grappling with severe damage after intense rainstorms triggered flash floods, landslides, and cloudbursts over the weekend, The Guardian reported.

The state government reported 23 flash floods, 16 landslides, and 19 cloudbursts, which have washed away hundreds of homes, bridges, roads, and electricity pylons. Dozens of people remain missing as rescue efforts continue amid difficult terrain and damaged infrastructure.

Several districts remain on high alert for further landslides, with warnings of additional rainfall expected this week. Himachal Pradesh, located in the Himalayas, has repeatedly suffered from erratic and intense monsoon rains in recent years, a trend linked to the climate crisis. In 2023, devastating floods in the region killed over 300 people and destroyed critical infrastructure.

The state disaster management authority reported 78 deaths so far this year from monsoon-related incidents, including flash floods, electrocution, and road accidents. Many towns, including Mandi, built on steep slopes, have seen homes collapse or be buried in mud.

Rescue operations are hampered by isolated areas lacking clean water and power. The early arrival of heavy monsoon rains has also caused flooding and fatalities in other parts of India, including Assam, Mizoram, and Mumbai, highlighting the growing threat posed by climate change during the monsoon season.