The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall in four states, including Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Jharkhand and Odisha are also expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall on July 16. According to IMD’s tweet, the rainfall in Jharkhand and Odisha could range from 115.6 to 204.4 mm.
Furthermore, IMD has stated that Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand will likely receive heavy to very heavy showers from July 16 to 17. In an interview with ANI, Vikram Singh, Director of the Meteorological Department in Dehradun, emphasized the need for high alertness due to the possibility of further rainfall. Although there may be a slight reduction in rainfall on July 18, heavy rainfall is still probable.
The heavy rainfall in these states has resulted in landslides, leading to road blockages and stranding numerous individuals. The Balwakot-Dharchula road in Dharchula near the Pithoragarh district’s border area was blocked due to a landslide. Moreover, the Yamunotri Highway number 123 was also blocked on Saturday in the Garhwal District, leaving several vehicles stuck on both sides of the road.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) continues its flood rescue operations in various flood-affected areas, including Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Delhi. The release of water from barrages and heavy rainfall has caused unprecedented floods. To aid in the rescue and relief efforts, 58 NDRF teams have been deployed across the affected states, with 16 teams in Delhi, 11 teams each in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, and 10 teams in Punjab and Haryana.
It is essential to remain cautious and prepared during this period of heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding. The safety of individuals and prompt action in response to the weather conditions should be the top priority.
