Shimla: The spell of monsoon showers in Himachal Pradesh is set to persist, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting another four days of rain across the state. A yellow alert has been issued today for eight districts, Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, Solan and Sirmaur, warning of light to moderate rainfall with heavy downpours at isolated locations. (Himachal Pradesh Weather Update)
The forecast indicates that weather conditions will intensify tomorrow, August 11, when two districts will come under an orange alert and six under a yellow alert. The day after, the orange alert will expand to three districts.
Himachal Pradesh Weather Update: Rainfall Above Normal Levels
According to IMD data, Himachal Pradesh has recorded 33% higher rainfall than normal so far this month. Una has seen the most precipitation, with 266.9 mm, a surge of 138% over average. Bilaspur followed with 229.1 mm (116% above normal), Hamirpur with 225.8 mm (106% above normal), and Mandi with 236.3 mm (71% higher).
Other regions also witnessed substantial increases: Shimla recorded 121.2 mm (79% above normal), Kinnaur 45.3 mm (double the usual figure), Kullu 122.4 mm (95% more), and Sirmaur 161.4 mm (23% higher).
Himachal Pradesh Weather Update: Heavy Damage Reported
The relentless rains and subsequent floods have inflicted severe losses on the state, with damages estimated at Rs 1,988 crore. Since the onset of monsoon, 219 people have died, 37 remain missing, and critical infrastructure continues to suffer. As of now, 362 roads are blocked, 613 electricity transformers are non-functional, leaving hundreds of villages without power, and 520 water supply schemes remain disrupted.
Authorities have urged residents, especially in hilly and landslide-prone regions, to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel during this period of unstable weather.