Shimla: Himachal Pradesh is set for another spell of intense monsoon activity, with the weather office forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall across several parts of the state over the coming days. An orange alert has been issued for Bilaspur, Kangra and Sirmaur for August 14, while several other districts remain under yellow warnings.
The Meteorological Department has advised residents and tourists to exercise caution, particularly in areas vulnerable to landslides, flash floods and sudden rises in water levels.
Heavy showers likely over several districts
For Thursday, a yellow warning has been issued for Chamba, Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur, where heavy rainfall is expected at isolated locations.
The situation is likely to become more intense on Friday as a Western Disturbance strengthens over the region. The weather system is expected to trigger heavier rainfall, prompting the orange alert in Bilaspur, Kangra and Sirmaur.
Meanwhile, Hamirpur, Chamba, Mandi, Shimla and Solan have been placed under a yellow alert for the same period.
Authorities have urged people to stay away from rivers, streams and other water channels and avoid travelling through locations known to be prone to landslides during periods of intense rainfall.
Rain could continue through Independence Day
The weather is unlikely to improve significantly on August 15. A yellow alert has been issued for Bilaspur, Kangra, Mandi, Solan, Sirmaur and Lahaul-Spiti, indicating that Independence Day celebrations could also be accompanied by rain in several parts of the state.
Another yellow warning has been issued for Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla and Sirmaur for August 16, suggesting that the wet spell may continue into the weekend.
Sunshine pushes temperatures higher
Despite the forecast of worsening weather, much of Himachal experienced relatively clear conditions during the previous 24 hours. The sunshine resulted in a sharp rise in temperatures across the state, with the average maximum temperature increasing by around six degrees.
Mandi recorded the biggest jump, with the mercury climbing 10.2 degrees to 35.6°C. Sundernagar saw a rise of 9.2 degrees to 35.1°C, while Kangra reached 33.4°C after an increase of 8.5 degrees. Solan recorded 31°C and Shimla 27.9°C.
State records 7% rainfall deficit
Despite several intense spells of rain, Himachal Pradesh has received 7% less rainfall than normal during the current monsoon season.
The deficit has been particularly significant in Lahaul-Spiti, where rainfall is 51% below normal, followed by Hamirpur at 47% and Mandi at 23%. Kangra has recorded a 15% shortfall, while Bilaspur, Solan and Una have also received below-normal rainfall.
Some districts, however, have received more rain than their seasonal average. Kullu has recorded 32% excess rainfall, followed by Shimla at 26%, Kinnaur at 23%, Sirmaur at 11% and Chamba at 6%.
With another active weather spell approaching, authorities have asked residents to keep track of official weather advisories and take precautions in vulnerable areas.
