Key Facts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rain alert for Himachal Pradesh from 10 to 15 July 2026. Several districts, including Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, Solan, Kangra, Kullu, and Chamba, are expected to receive heavy rainfall at isolated places. In response, the Sirmaur and Solan district administrations have ordered the closure of all government and private schools, colleges, and anganwadi centers on 10 July.
Details of the Weather Alert
According to the IMD Shimla, light to moderate rain is likely across most parts of the state during this period, with heavy rain at isolated spots. The alert specifically mentions Sirmaur, Mandi, Shimla, and Solan districts for continuous heavy rainfall over several days. Additionally, strong winds of 30-40 km/h are expected in Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti districts between 9 and 15 July. Thunderstorms and lightning are also predicted in many areas.
Rainfall and Temperature Data
In the last 24 hours, most parts of the state received light to moderate rain. The highest rainfall of 5 cm was recorded in Jot (Chamba), followed by 4 cm each in Malaranv (Bilaspur), Sarahan (Shimla), and Chuwadi (Chamba). Kukumseri was the coldest place in the state with a minimum temperature of 10.6°C, while Bhuntar recorded the maximum temperature of 33.3°C.
Impact on Daily Life
School Closures in Sirmaur and Solan
The Sirmaur district administration declared a holiday for all educational institutions and anganwadi centers on 10 July under Section 30(V) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005. Similarly, Solan district magistrate Manmohan Sharma ordered the closure of all government and private schools and anganwadi centers, though residential colleges, universities, and medical institutions were exempted. Teachers and non-teaching staff are required to be present in their institutions.
Landslide in Nahan Traps 40 People
In Nahan town of Sirmaur district, a dilapidated retaining wall collapsed in Joshion Wali Gali on Friday morning, causing a massive landslide. The debris blocked the lane and damaged several houses, trapping around 40 people from eight families inside their homes. A power pole was damaged, and a main water pipeline broke, disrupting electricity and water supply. Locals alleged that construction work was ongoing on the weak wall despite prior warnings. The affected families have demanded immediate relief and rescue operations.
Waterlogging in Kullu
Overnight rain in Kullu district led to waterlogging on roads and slippery conditions, affecting students and office-goers. Drainage systems overflowed, causing inconvenience to commuters. The IMD has advised people to avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from rivers and landslide-prone areas.
What Readers Should Know
- Heavy rain alert is in effect till 15 July 2026 for multiple districts.
- Schools and anganwadi centers in Sirmaur and Solan are closed on 10 July.
- Landslide in Nahan has trapped 40 people; rescue operations are awaited.
- Residents are advised to follow administrative advisories and avoid risky areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which districts in Himachal are under heavy rain alert?
Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, Solan, Kangra, Kullu, and Chamba are under heavy rain alert till 15 July 2026.
Why were schools closed in Sirmaur and Solan?
Schools were closed on 10 July 2026 as a precaution due to heavy rain, landslide risk, and flash flood warnings issued by the IMD.
What was the impact of the landslide in Nahan?
A retaining wall collapsed in Joshion Wali Gali, Nahan, trapping around 40 people in their homes. Several houses are at risk, and water supply and electricity were disrupted.