Shimla: Independence Day celebrations in Himachal Pradesh are set to take place amid continued monsoon activity, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of more heavy rain across parts of the hill state over the coming days.
The weather office has forecast rainfall through August 20, with conditions likely to worsen in some areas on August 17 and 18. An Orange Alert has been issued for the possibility of very heavy rainfall during this period, prompting authorities to advise residents and visitors to remain cautious, particularly in vulnerable areas.
For Saturday, a Yellow Alert was in place for Bilaspur, Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur. Similar warnings have been issued for Chamba, Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur for August 16.
Western Disturbance likely to intensify rain
The weather situation is expected to become more active from Saturday night as a Western Disturbance gains strength. Its interaction with prevailing monsoon conditions could trigger heavy showers in several parts of Himachal Pradesh during August 17 and 18.
The IMD has urged people to avoid unnecessary travel through landslide-prone stretches and remain alert in areas vulnerable to flash floods, falling rocks and other rain-related hazards.
Rainfall deficit persists despite prolonged wet spell
Despite repeated spells of rain, Himachal Pradesh continues to record a seasonal rainfall deficit.
Between June 1 and August 14, the state received around 446 mm of rain, compared with the normal average of 497.2 mm for the period. This translates into a deficit of roughly 10 per cent.
The uneven distribution of rainfall has left several districts dealing with intense downpours while others continue to remain below their seasonal average.
Monsoon disasters claim 181 lives
The prolonged monsoon has also taken a heavy toll across the state. Official figures show that 181 people have died in rain-related incidents and other accidents during the current monsoon season.
Road accidents account for the largest share, with 103 deaths reported so far. Landslides have claimed another 14 lives, while one death has been attributed to a flash flood.
The figures underline the wider risks posed by the continuing wet spell, particularly in the state’s mountainous terrain.
Damage to houses and infrastructure crosses Rs 955 crore
The monsoon has also caused extensive damage to both public and private property. The cumulative losses have been estimated at around ₹955 crore.
At least 82 houses have been completely destroyed, while another 164 homes have suffered partial damage. With more rain forecast in the coming days, authorities remain watchful for further damage to roads, buildings and other infrastructure.
Temperatures fall as rain returns
The renewed rainfall has brought down daytime temperatures across several parts of the state.
Shimla recorded a fall of 3.8°C, with the maximum temperature settling at 22.6°C. Una saw a decline of 4°C to 32.2°C, while Keylong recorded a drop of 4.8°C to 21.7°C.
Temperatures also fell to 24.6°C in Manali, 30.6°C in Mandi and 30.3°C in Kangra.
With another spell of heavy rain expected shortly, the state is likely to remain under the grip of unsettled weather even as Independence Day events are held across Himachal Pradesh.
