Shimla: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rainfall warning for parts of Himachal Pradesh on Saturday, forecasting intense showers in Chamba, Kangra and Sirmaur districts. Light to moderate rainfall is expected across most other parts of the state as monsoon activity remains active.
According to the weather department, thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds of 30 to 40 kmph are likely over the lower and mid-hill regions. Similar wind conditions have also been forecast for the tribal districts of Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti.
The IMD has cautioned that persistent rainfall may trigger flash floods, landslides and debris flow in vulnerable areas. Authorities have also warned of rising water levels in rivers and seasonal streams, which could lead to waterlogging in low-lying areas and disrupt road traffic due to slippery conditions and falling debris.
In view of the forecast, residents and tourists have been advised to stay away from rivers, streams and landslide-prone stretches. The department has also urged people to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall and to follow advisories issued by local authorities.
Meteorologists expect the active monsoon spell to continue over the coming days, with intermittent heavy showers likely in several parts of the state. People have been advised to keep track of the latest weather updates before planning travel.
Weather data released by the department showed that Una recorded the state’s highest maximum temperature at 32.6 degrees Celsius on Friday. It was followed by Mandi (32.0°C), Nahan (28.2°C), Dharamshala (28.0°C), Solan (28.0°C) and Shimla (21.4°C). Temperatures remained largely unchanged compared to the previous day.
Among rainfall figures, Shimla received the highest precipitation at 34 mm during the past 24 hours. Mandi recorded 19.4 mm, Una received 12.1 mm, Nahan logged 9 mm, while Jubbarhatti and Kangra registered 4.8 mm and 4 mm, respectively.
With the possibility of more rain over the weekend, disaster management authorities remain on alert and have appealed to the public to remain cautious, particularly in flood- and landslide-prone regions.
