Himachal Pradesh Schools Closed on August 21: Heavy rains forces closure in Una, Kullu and Mandi

Himachal Schools Closed: Schools, colleges and other educational institutions in several districts of Himachal Pradesh will remain closed on Thursday, 21 August, after heavy rainfall led to flash floods, landslides and road blockages. Authorities in Una, Kullu and Mandi districts directed the closure of schools as a precautionary measure.

In Una, orders were issued for Amb and Gagret subdivisions, where rainfall was reported to be very high. In Kullu, schools in Manali and Banjar areas were shut following flash floods and landslides. In Mandi, schools in affected villages were closed after a footbridge in Silbhudhani was washed away and streams such as Bhubu and Kungri turned turbulent.

Officials advised students to stay in touch with their schools for holiday updates. Citizens have also been urged not to venture outdoors unless necessary, due to the risk of floods and landslides.

The situation has also affected road connectivity. Landslides blocked National Highway 21 along the Mandi–Kullu route, as well as the Mandi–Jogindernagar (NH 154) and Aut–Sainj (NH 305) roads. According to the State Emergency Operation Centre, a total of 368 roads across the state remain closed.

In Kullu’s Shastri Nagar, flash floods damaged houses and vehicles, though no casualties were reported. Meanwhile, continuous rainfall disrupted normal life in several districts, with many areas experiencing waterlogging and damage to infrastructure.

Rainfall data showed Una received the highest rainfall in the state with 132.6 mm. Bharwain recorded 68 mm, Dehra Gopipur 63.4 mm and Palampur 60.4 mm. Intermittent downpours continued across Himachal Pradesh through Tuesday night and Wednesday morning.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in districts including Solan, Shimla, Mandi, Kangra, Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur and Sirmaur. A yellow alert has been issued for other parts of the state.