Shimla: Heavy overnight rainfall in Theog and nearby areas of Shimla district disrupted normal life on Sunday, with reports of road blockages in several stretches. While Theog witnessed intense showers, Shimla city experienced only light rainfall.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that monsoon activity will remain active across Himachal Pradesh over the coming days. Light to moderate rainfall is expected in most parts of the state for the next six days, with a Yellow Alert issued for Bilaspur, Chamba, Kangra and Sirmaur districts on Monday due to the possibility of heavy rainfall.
Rain Warnings Extended for Several Districts
According to the weather department, the spell of wet weather is likely to continue through the week. Heavy rainfall has been forecast for Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur and Kangra on August 4.
On August 5, Una, Kangra, Chamba and Mandi are expected to receive heavy showers, while Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Kangra, Mandi, Solan and Sirmaur remain under heavy rain warning for August 6.
Authorities have advised residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert as persistent rainfall could increase the risk of landslides, flash floods and road disruptions.
Monsoon Rainfall Still Below Seasonal Average
Despite frequent spells of rain in recent weeks, the state continues to record a rainfall deficit for the ongoing monsoon season. Between June 1 and July 31, Himachal Pradesh received 347.9 mm of rainfall against the normal average of 376.6 mm, leaving the seasonal rainfall 8 per cent below normal.
July Registers Above-Normal Rainfall
Although the overall monsoon remains below average, rainfall during July exceeded normal levels. The state received 272.5 mm of rain during the month, around 6 per cent higher than the long-term average for July.
Several districts recorded significantly above-normal rainfall during the month. Kullu witnessed the highest surplus at 62 per cent, followed by Kinnaur (59 per cent), Chamba (46 per cent), Shimla (41 per cent), Sirmaur (12 per cent), Solan (7 per cent) and Una (1 per cent).
However, rainfall remained below normal in some districts, including Bilaspur (1 per cent deficit), Kangra (7 per cent deficit), Mandi (21 per cent deficit) and Lahaul-Spiti (43 per cent deficit).
With more rain expected over the next few days, the administration has urged residents and tourists to monitor weather advisories, avoid unnecessary travel in landslide-prone areas and exercise caution while driving on hilly roads.
