On Tuesday, August 5, a sudden flash flood swept through a mountain valley and a tourist village in the Himalayan region of North Indian state of Uttarakhand, India. Authorities swiftly dispatched rescue teams to the scene, where at least 4 people have been confirmed dead, with around 100 individuals reported missing.
Multiple media reports indicated that the flash flood occurred around 1:30 PM local time on Tuesday. Videos broadcast by Indian media showed muddy floodwaters carrying sediment and rocks cascading down the hilly terrain, rushing into the popular tourist destination of Dharali in Uttarakhand, washing away roads, numerous houses, guesthouses, and hotels along the way in a heart-wrenching scene.
Indian Defense Minister Sanjay Seth told local media, “The situation is very serious. We have received reports of 4 deaths and around 100 people missing.”
Local officials stated that many buildings have been damaged or completely washed away, with numerous individuals believed to be trapped under the debris.
The Indian military announced that the first rescue teams are fully engaged in search and rescue operations in the disaster-stricken area. Emergency response teams, including the National Disaster Response Force, have arrived at the scene, with additional personnel on standby. In a statement, the military said, “A massive landslide hit the village of Dharali, with a sudden rush of mudslides inundating the residential area.”
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami mentioned that the floods were triggered by sudden heavy rainfall and has directed rescue teams to operate in a “war-like situation.” He emphasized staying in close contact with local authorities and closely monitoring the situation.
Approximately 20 people have been rescued so far, but 9 Indian Army personnel are still missing due to the military base in the area also being affected by the flood.
Indian Prime Minister Modi expressed condolences to the affected people on social media, stating, “We are making every effort to assist the affected people.”
On Tuesday, the Indian Meteorological Department issued a red alert for Uttarakhand and recorded rainfall of about 21 centimeters in remote areas, reaching “extremely heavy rainfall.”
Nevertheless, the Indian Meteorological Department predicts continued heavy rainfall in the region over the next few days. Local authorities have instructed several schools in the area to remain closed.