Shimla: Himachal Pradesh is bracing for another spell of intense rainfall, with the weather department warning of heavy to very heavy showers in parts of the state over the next two days. An orange alert has been issued as authorities remain concerned about landslides, road blockages and rising water levels in rivers and streams.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has placed Kangra and Sirmaur under an orange alert for August 10, while Kangra and Mandi are expected to remain at risk on August 11. Some areas could receive very heavy rain during this period.
Residents and tourists have been advised against venturing close to rivers, streams, nullahs and other water bodies. People have also been asked to avoid locations vulnerable to landslides, particularly during periods of intense rainfall.
Two bodies recovered in Kullu
The weather warning comes amid fresh reports of rain-related incidents in Kullu.
Two bodies were recovered from water channels in the district on Sunday. One was found in the Manalsu Nullah near Old Manali, while the other was recovered from the Parvati River in the Manikaran Valley.
The deceased were identified as Darnal, a Nepal resident who worked as a tailor in Old Manali, and 25-year-old Devendra Kumar, son of Thakur Chand, from Manikaran.
The incidents have added to concerns over the dangers posed by swollen streams and rivers during the monsoon.
Rain likely across state for several more days
According to the IMD, rainfall has already spread across large parts of Himachal Pradesh, with showers reported in areas including Shimla since Sunday night.
The wet spell is expected to continue until August 15, although the intensity may gradually decline. The Western Disturbance influencing the weather is expected to weaken from August 12, after which some areas could see lighter to moderate rainfall.
For now, however, authorities remain cautious as heavy rain can quickly alter conditions in the hill state.
Monsoon rainfall still below normal
Despite repeated spells of rain, Himachal Pradesh has received 8% less rainfall than normal during the current monsoon season.
Seven districts have recorded rainfall below their normal levels, while five districts have received more rain than the seasonal average.
With another round of heavy showers approaching, authorities have urged people to keep track of official weather updates and avoid unnecessary movement in vulnerable areas. For tourists, caution is particularly important as road conditions and water levels can change rapidly during intense rainfall.
