Cloudbursts, Landslides & Flash Floods: North India’s Monsoon Fury Leaves 18 Dead, 500 Feared Stranded

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Continuous heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, pushing both states into severe crisis. Uttarakhand has already recorded 22% above-normal rainfall, while Himachal has witnessed 46 cloudburst incidents this monsoon, triggering over 140 landslides and 97 flash floods.

The situation worsened last night with torrential rains — five people swept away in flash floods and 18 tragic deaths reported in Dehradun. More than 500 people are feared stranded, raising alarm for rescue operations. Authorities warn that heavy downpours will continue today, worsening the already grim scenario.

Meanwhile, Delhi-NCR enjoys contrasting weather, with cool winds, cloudy skies, and expected showers till September 19. Meteorologists predict a sharp drop in temperatures, offering residents much-needed relief.

In Uttar Pradesh, an Orange Alert has been issued for over 30 districts including Lucknow, Ayodhya, Gonda, Barabanki, and Amethi. The Met Department has warned of thunderstorms, lightning strikes, and intense rainfall over the next 48 hours.

On the other hand, the monsoon is retreating from Gujarat and Rajasthan, though parts of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and eastern Rajasthan will continue to see heavy showers for the next three days.