Heavy rainfall in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh leads to more than 350 road blockages and disruptions in water supply
Cloudburst in Sharod Nala, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh: A Close Call
A cloudburst hit the Jari sub-tehsil area of Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh on August 8, 2025, causing a swift rise in the water levels of Barogi Nala, adjoining Sharod Nala. Despite the dramatic event, authorities have confirmed that the situation is currently stable, with no loss of life or injuries reported [1][2][3][4][5].
The cloudburst occurred around 5:35 PM, and the Central Water Commission, along with local officials from the Fire Station Jari, Public Works Department Manikaran, and the District Public Communication Room, have confirmed the incident. The water levels in Barogi Nala surged due to persistent, intense rainfall.
This cloudburst is part of the ongoing severe monsoon activity in Himachal Pradesh, which has resulted in widespread disruption, including 357 blocked roads, 599 non-functional power transformers, and 177 affected water supply schemes across the state [6]. Since the start of the monsoon season, 208 weather-related fatalities have been recorded, primarily due to natural disasters like landslides and floods [7].
In a separate incident, another cloudburst occurred earlier this week in Dharali village, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, which destroyed homes and forced residents to evacuate [8]. Videos from the Dharali site show the landscape changing rapidly, highlighting the sudden and destructive nature of such events during the monsoon season.
As a precautionary measure, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Shimla, Mandi, Solan, and Sirmaur districts for August 9, 2025 [1]. In addition, an orange alert, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall, has been issued for 11 and 12 August in several parts of Himachal Pradesh [9].
The heavy rainfall has also affected Delhi, with the Yamuna river nearing the danger mark. As a result, over 150 flights have been delayed or cancelled [10]. IndiGo, Air India, and Spicejet have issued advisories regarding the flight disruptions in Delhi [11].
Amidst these challenges, the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has reaffirmed his commitment to protecting farmers. He stated that he is ready to pay a heavy price to ensure their safety [12].
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and we will bring you updates as they become available.
Sources:
- The Indian Express
- The Times of India
- NDTV
- Hindustan Times
- Business Standard
- Himachal Pradesh Disaster Response and Management
- Himachal Pradesh Disaster Response and Management
- The Hindu
- IMD
- ANI
- IndiGo, Air India, Spicejet
- PTI
- The financial impact of the ongoing monsoon-related disasters in India could be significant, with potential losses in infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism sectors, according to defi analysts.
- Amidst these extreme weather events, environmental scientists are highlighting the potential connection between climate change and increased frequency of such incidents.
- In response, the Indian government has initiated discussions on implementing weather-forecasting technologies to improve early warning systems and minimize losses.
- The science community is also exploring the use of blockchain technology in financing disaster relief efforts, aiming to ensure transparency and efficiency in the allocation of funds.
