Students across Himachal Pradesh may see temporary school closures in the coming days as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy to moderate rain in the state. With the orange warning from July 19 to July 23, the government has ordered the Deputy Commissioner to request the suspension of classes wherever the weather poses a threat to students.This comes as several parts of the mountainous region continue to experience heavy rains, raising concerns about floods, landslides, logging and road closures. The government has said that decisions on the closure of schools will be taken in the districts after assessing the weather conditions and the insecurity of the area.
School closures elections left to regional governments
Finance Minister Jagat Singh Negi said deputy commissioners have been empowered to decide whether schools will be open or closed depending on the weather and location in their districts according to media reports.The process of decentralization is aimed at ensuring that decisions are taken based on local conditions rather than shutting down the entire country. District officials are expected to monitor weather conditions and declare school holidays wherever storms threaten the safety of students and staff.Parents and students are advised to stay in touch with their school and district administration for the latest updates on their schools.
The IMD is issuing a five-day warning
The Shimla Meteorological Center has issued an orange alert for isolated places in Himachal Pradesh from July 19 to July 22, warning of heavy rainfall. A special warning for heavy rain has also been issued on July 23.According to the Meteorological Department, prolonged rainfall can cause landslides, mudslides and flash floods in vulnerable areas. Rising water levels in rivers and streams, along with inundation of low-lying areas, can also disrupt normal flow.This advice is very important for school going children, especially in hilly districts where roads are often affected by rains.
Kangra and Chamba are among the most affected districts
Heavy rain has already started falling from several parts of the state in the last 24 hours. According to the Shimla Meteorological Centre, Jot in Chamba district recorded 109 mm of rain since Friday evening, followed by Kangra with 77.4 mm and Palampur with 38 mm. Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning was also reported from Kangra and Jot, indicating the progress of the monsoon season across the region.The ongoing rains have increased the chances of landslides and road disruptions, which often affect decisions about school activities in the mountainous region.
Student safety it depends on priority
Officials also said that student safety remains the state’s top concern during the monsoon season. Officials have advised schools, parents and students to be alert and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rains.The Meteorological Department has also urged people to follow weather warnings and travel advisories while staying away from rivers, streams and landslide-prone areas.In districts where roads are in poor condition due to storms or floods, local authorities may declare school closures or suspend classes as a precautionary measure.
Parents asked to monitor government announcements
With more rain expected over the next few days, parents have been advised not to rely on school holiday forecasts. Instead, they have to regularly check the information provided by their district administration, school authorities, and Himachal Pradesh government.As the weather remains unpredictable, school closures will only be announced when the authorities deem that continuing education would pose a risk. Until then, students and parents are encouraged to stay alert and follow all hurricane advisories.