Himachal Pradesh has been grappling with the devastating consequences of relentless heavy rainfall, resulting in a tragic loss of life and widespread disruption. As of August 20, 2025, the death toll has surpassed 270, with many still missing. The incessant rains have triggered flash floods, cloudbursts, and landslides, leaving a trail of destruction across the state.
The torrential downpour has severely impacted infrastructure, with 366 roads, including National Highways, rendered impassable due to landslides and waterlogging. This has disrupted transportation and communication networks, hampering rescue and relief efforts. Power supply has also been disrupted, with 929 transformers affected, and 139 water supply schemes thrown into disarray.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rains in isolated parts of the state from August 24 to 26, indicating the likelihood of further downpours and potential for more landslides and flash floods. A yellow warning for heavy rains at isolated places in the state has been issued for August 23. These warnings have prompted authorities to take precautionary measures, including closure of educational institutions in some of the most vulnerable districts.
Several districts have been particularly hard hit. Una recorded the highest rainfall with 132.6 mm, followed by Bharwain with 68 mm, Dehra Gopipur with 63.4 mm, Palampur with 60.4 mm, Guler with 60 mm, Solan with 56 mm, Bilaspur with 53.8 mm and Jubbarhatti with 48.3 mm. Mandi district has also suffered extensive damage due to landslides and flash floods, with many houses inundated with debris. A cloudburst in Kullu damaged vehicles and prompted the closure of educational institutions in the Manali subdivision.
Since the onset of the monsoon on June 20, 2025, Himachal Pradesh has witnessed 74 flash floods, 39 cloudbursts, and 73 major landslides. The state has received 634.9 mm of rain during this period, exceeding the normal average of 543.6 mm by 17%. The economic losses due to rain-related incidents have been estimated at ₹2,281 crore.
In response to the crisis, rescue operations are underway in the affected districts, with teams deployed to evacuate people from vulnerable areas and provide relief. Authorities have advised residents to stay away from rivers and streams and to take necessary precautions. With rising water levels in dams, water is being released regularly, and people living in downstream areas have been urged to remain vigilant.
The average temperatures in Himachal Pradesh during August range from 82°F to 93°F. Rainfall is expected for approximately half of the month. While some reports suggest temperatures around 21°C, there are variations depending on altitude and location. Shimla, for instance, experiences temperatures between 16.9°C to 23°C in August. The weather in Himachal Pradesh is expected to have fairly consistent patterns, with rainfall mainly in the evenings and manageable road access during daytime.
