India: Disruptions due to flooding continue across northern regions as of July 13 /update 2

Event

Disruptions due to heavy rainfall and associated flooding and landslides are ongoing across much of northern India as of July 13. Authorities have reported more than 100 weather-related fatalities across Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kasmir, Ladakh, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand in recent days. Hundreds of roads across the affected region have been made impassable by floodwaters and landslides, and several communities have been cut off. Response operations continue across parts of the region.

Delhi received its highest daily rainfall amount in over 40 years on July 9, and widespread disruptions are ongoing in the capital. More than 16,000 people have been evacuated from at-risk areas along the Yunama River. At least three water treatment plants have ceased operations due to flooding, leading to water shortage concerns. The entry and exit to Yamuna Bank metro station are closed on July 13 due to flooding, and several roads across the city have been inundated by floodwaters; authorities have placed restrictions on heavy goods vehicles entering Delhi due to the traffic congestion associated with the ongoing floods. Around 20 flights were canceled, and 120 were delayed at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) on July 9, and further flight disruptions are possible in the coming days. Schools have been closed in the capital through at least July 16.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of further intense rainfall over parts of northern India through at least July 17. The IMD has issued red heavy rainfall, thunderstorm, and lightning warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) across Uttarakhand and orange warnings across Uttar Pradesh July 13-14, as well as yellow warnings across the rest of the affected area. Further orange warnings are in place over Uttarakhand, and yellow warnings over the rest of the affected area July 15-17. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Health
Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming days. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

India Meteorological Department