Understanding the 2023 monsoon catastrophe in Himalayan mountains: a comprehensive analysis of rainfall extremes and disaster management

K. S. Kasiviswanathan (), Suresh Devaraj, Chandni Thakur, Idhayachandhiran Ilampooranan and B. Soundharajan
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K. S. Kasiviswanathan: Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Department of Water Resources Development and Management
Suresh Devaraj: Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Centre for Remote Sensing and Geoinformatics
Chandni Thakur: University of Birmingham, School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences
Idhayachandhiran Ilampooranan: Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Department of Water Resources Development and Management
B. Soundharajan: Amrita School of Engineering, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Department of Civil Engineering

Natural Hazards: Journal of the International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural Hazards, 2025, vol. 121, issue 19, No 11, 22636 pages

Abstract: Abstract Globally, the frequency and intensity of floods are steeply rising due to climate change and anthropogenic activities. This study investigates the extreme rainfall during July and August 2023 in the Himalayan region, particularly Himachal Pradesh, which resulted in severe flooding, landslides, and significant economic losses. Key districts, including Hamirpur, Kullu, and Mandi, recorded extreme daily rainfall intensities of 694.43 mm, 1265.97 mm, and 949.8 mm, respectively. Analysis using historical precipitation data, return periods, and Generalized Extreme Value theory indicates that these events correspond to return periods exceeding 100 years in both the Beas and Upper Beas River Basins. Field surveys conducted in the affected areas revealed critical shortcomings in early warning systems, infrastructure resilience and disaster preparedness (emergency response mechanisms) and public awareness. Spatial analyses, including flood susceptibility mapping and site suitability analysis using weighted overlay, identified high risk zones and potential locations for relief infrastructures near Sundernagar, Kullu, and select locations around Mandi. The study underscore the urgent need for integrated disaster preparedness strategies, infrastructure planning, and community engagement to ensure timely and effective responses. The study also highlights the necessity of mental health support and long-term climate adaptation strategies to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights for policymakers, disaster management agencies, and the public, emphasizing the urgency of proactive measures to safeguard against future climatic adversities.

Keywords: Extreme rainfall; Flood mitigation and management; Climate change; Rainfall variability; Disaster preparedness (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s11069-025-07698-y

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