Himachal Pradesh Severe Weather Alert: 5 Shocking Flash Floods Wreck Vehicles Amid Thunderstorm Fury

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds (40–50 kmph) across all 12 districts of Himachal Pradesh on May 27–28, urging residents to stay vigilant. This follows flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall in Kullu’s Sharshaya Nallah on Saturday, which damaged over 20 vehicles near Jagat Khana, though no casualties were reported. While locals attributed the deluge to a cloudburst, officials cited intense rain as the cause, with viral videos showing cars swept away by surging waters.

The Hindustan-Tibet Highway (NH-5) was also blocked near Jhakri due to debris slides, disrupting travel between Rampur and Kinnaur. The Satluj River’s rising levels have heightened flood concerns, while a six-day wet spell is expected, with moderate rain forecast in mid-hills and plains later this week. Temperatures varied sharply, from 39.2°C in Una to 7.3°C in Keylong, with gusty winds hitting 56 kmph in areas like Reckongpeo. Authorities advise caution in landslide-prone zones and near water bodies as the state braces for continued weather instability.

Himachal Pradesh Severe Weather Alert: 5 Shocking Flash Floods Wreck Vehicles Amid Thunderstorm Fury

Himachal Pradesh braces for turbulent weather as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues a ‘yellow’ alert across all 12 districts, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds (40–50 kmph) on May 27–28. This comes amid reports of flash floods triggered by heavy rains in Kullu district, where over 20 vehicles were damaged near Jagat Khana in Nirmand.  

Kullu Flash Floods: No Casualties, But Significant Damage 

Local authorities confirmed that Saturday’s deluge in the Sharshaya Nallah catchment area swept away parked vehicles, though no injuries were reported. Sub-Divisional Magistrate Manmohan Singh attributed the incident to intense rainfall, countering residents’ claims of a cloudburst. Viral social media footage depicted cars being dragged by surging waters, highlighting the suddenness of the event. Meanwhile, the Satluj River’s rising levels have raised concerns about further flooding risks.  

Travel Disruptions and Weather Forecast 

The Hindustan-Tibet Road (NH-5) faced blockage near Jhakri due to debris slides, disrupting connectivity between Rampur and Kinnaur. The IMD’s six-day forecast predicts intermittent rain, with moderate showers expected in mid-hills and plains on May 27–28. Isolated areas in higher altitudes, including Chamba, Kullu, and Shimla, may experience light rain starting May 25.  

Temperature Trends and Wind Warnings 

While Una recorded the state’s highest temperature at 39.2°C, Keylong in Lahaul-Spiti shivered at 7.3°C. Gusts reaching 56 kmph battered regions like Reckongpeo and Narkanda, exacerbating weather-related hazards. The yellow alert urges residents to stay vigilant, particularly in districts like Kangra and Mandi, where wind speeds could intensify.  

Understanding the Alerts 

The IMD’s color-coded system designates yellow as a advisory to “be aware” of potential weather disruptions, urging precaution rather than immediate danger. However, the recurring wet spells signal a need for preparedness, especially in landslide-prone zones.  

As Himachal navigates this volatile weather window, authorities emphasize monitoring river levels and avoiding vulnerable areas. Tourists and locals alike are advised to heed updates and prioritize safety amid the unpredictable conditions.