New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh flood and landslide alert for several northern states, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh, following heavy rainfall across the region. The warning comes as Delhi crossed the 1,000 mm rainfall mark this season, surpassing its annual average by a huge margin.
Key Precautions Issued by IMD:
- Avoid travel to hilly and flood-prone areas during heavy rainfall.
- Stay away from rivers, nullahs, and bridges.
- Follow advisories issued by district authorities.
- Keep emergency kits and communication devices ready.
Flash Flood Risk in Northern States
According to the IMD forecast, the next 24 hours are crucial for several districts in the Himalayan belt as heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected. Authorities have warned of the possibility of flash floods, cloudbursts, waterlogging, and landslides in vulnerable areas.
Districts at Risk:
- Uttarakhand: Almora, Bageshwar, Chamoli, Dehradun, Pauri, Pithoragarh, Rudraprayag, Tehri, Uttarkashi
- J&K and Ladakh: Anantnag, Doda, Kathua, Kishtwar, Kulgam, Punch, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur
- Himachal Pradesh: Chamba, Kangra, Kinnaur, Kullu, Lahaul-Spiti, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur
In Jammu, the Tawi river swelled dangerously, flooding areas near Har ki Pauri temple. Local authorities have advised residents in low-lying areas to remain alert and avoid venturing near rivers and streams.
IMD Srinagar Forecast
IMD Srinagar has predicted intense showers across Jammu, Kathua, Reasi, Doda, Udhampur, and Rajouri within the next 14–16 hours. Heavy rain is also expected in Kishtwar, Poonch, Anantnag, Shopian, and Kulgam, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides.
The department has urged district administrations to activate disaster management teams and keep rescue operations on standby.
September Rainfall to Remain Above Normal
IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra has cautioned that September is likely to record above-normal rainfall, heightening the risk of landslides and floods in hilly regions. He stressed that since many rivers originate in Uttarakhand, heavy downpours will have a cascading impact downstream in Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
Delhi Crosses 1,000 mm Rainfall Mark
Meanwhile, the national capital recorded over 1,000 mm of rainfall this season — well above its annual average of 774 mm. Delhi received 963.4 mm of rainfall till August 31, with another 37.8 mm on September 1 and 16 mm on September 2, pushing the total beyond the 1,000 mm mark.
The heavy rainfall has led to traffic congestion, waterlogging, and disruption of daily life across Delhi and the NCR region, including Gurugram and Noida.
Punjab Struggles with Worst Floods Since 1988
Adding to the crisis, Punjab is reeling under its worst floods in decades, with 30 lives lost and over 3.5 lakh people affected. All 23 districts have been declared flood-hit, and nearly 20,000 residents have been evacuated so far.
Officials fear the impact may worsen if heavy rains continue in neighboring Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, which feed major rivers flowing into Punjab.
Authorities on High Alert
State governments in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, J&K, and Punjab have been asked to remain on high alert. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have been deployed in flood-prone areas to ensure quick evacuation and relief.
Conclusion
With heavy rain continuing in North India, the situation remains tense across several states. The IMD’s latest warning highlights the urgent need for preparedness, quick response, and public cooperation to minimize loss of life and property.
As Delhi crosses the 1,000 mm rainfall milestone, experts warn that the monsoon may intensify further, testing the resilience of both urban and rural areas in the coming weeks.