Shimla: Heavy rainfall lashed parts of Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday, with Kangra witnessing intense showers that led to waterlogging in several market areas and vegetable mandis. The spell is expected to continue across the state over the next few days, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue weather warnings for multiple districts.
The weather department has placed Bilaspur, Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Solan, Shimla and Sirmaur under a yellow alert for rain on Tuesday. The warning has also been extended to the coming days, with some districts likely to experience spells of heavy rainfall.
For September 2, heavy rain is forecast in Kangra, Shimla, Solan and Sirmaur. The warning shifts to Kangra and Sirmaur on September 3, while unsettled weather is expected to continue across Himachal Pradesh on September 4.
The monsoon activity is likely to ease from September 5, according to the forecast. Meanwhile, mist in several areas could bring visibility down to around 50 metres, increasing the risk for people travelling on mountain roads. Drivers have been advised to reduce speed and exercise caution.
Temperatures Likely to Fall
The continuing rain is also expected to bring some relief from the prevailing warmth. Maximum temperatures across Himachal Pradesh could fall by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius during the next four days.
Despite the expected decline, temperatures in the state are currently averaging 1.1 degrees Celsius above normal, indicating that the weather remains warmer than usual for this period.
State Still Faces Rainfall Deficit
Despite the recent wet spell, Himachal Pradesh has received 10% less rainfall than normal during the current monsoon season.
The shortfall varies considerably between districts. Hamirpur has recorded a 35% deficit, while Kangra is 6% below normal, Kinnaur 5% below and Mandi 18% below. The biggest deficit has been reported from Lahaul-Spiti, at 59%.
On the other hand, some districts have received more rain than their usual levels. Shimla is 14% above normal, while Bilaspur has recorded a 3% surplus and Sirmaur is 3% above normal. Chamba’s rainfall remains around the normal mark.
With more rain forecast through September 4, authorities and residents in vulnerable areas are keeping a close watch on waterlogging, road conditions and visibility, particularly in hilly and low-lying locations.
