Himachal Pradesh Cloudbursts & Flash Floods 2025: 2 Dead, 20 Missing in Kangra, Kullu Disaster

Tragic Cloudbursts and Flash Floods Devastate Himachal Pradesh: 2 Dead, 20 Feared Missing

Shimla, June 26, 2025 – A series of devastating cloudbursts and flash floods struck Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday, claiming at least two lives and leaving approximately 20 people feared swept away in the torrential waters. The natural disaster has caused widespread destruction across multiple districts, with rescue operations underway amid challenging weather conditions.

Catastrophic Impact in Kangra and Kullu

In Kangra district, the Manuni Khad stream surged unexpectedly, engulfing a labor colony near the Indira Priyadarshini Hydroelectric project in Khaniyara village. Two bodies have been recovered, and 15-20 workers stationed at the site are feared missing after floodwaters redirected toward their temporary shelters.

In Kullu district, three cloudburst incidents were reported in Jeeva Nallah, Rehla Bihal, and Shilagarh areas. Flash floods ravaged Manali and Banjar, destroying homes, a school, shops, and critical infrastructure like roads and bridges. Three individuals in Rehla Bihal were reported missing after attempting to salvage belongings from their flooded homes. Kullu Additional Deputy Commissioner Ashwani Kumar confirmed that search operations are ongoing, with teams battling treacherous conditions to locate survivors.

Eyewitness Accounts and Ongoing Rescue Efforts

Local resident Priya Sharma, who witnessed the flooding in Kullu, described the scene: “The water came so fast, it was like a wall. Houses and shops were swept away in minutes. We’re praying for those still missing.” The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed across affected areas, with rescue efforts complicated by continuous rain and damaged roadways.

Around 20 workers are feared swept away. Rescue teams are doing all they can, but we need urgent support.”

Weather Warnings and Future Risks

The state government has promised immediate relief measures, including food, shelter, and medical aid for displaced families.

The tragedy underscores the growing threat of extreme weather events in the region, raising calls for improved disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience.