Himachal: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for five districts of Himachal Pradesh for the next two to three days, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall, landslides, flash floods, rising water levels in rivers and streams, and travel disruptions.
Speaking to ANI, IMD Himachal Pradesh Centre Head Shobhit Katiyar said, “The monsoon is expected to remain active across Himachal Pradesh for around the next one week. The mid-hill and adjoining lower hill regions are likely to receive widespread rainfall. We have issued an Orange Alert for Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla and Solan districts for the next two to three days, where isolated places may witness heavy to very heavy rainfall.”
Katiyar said rainfall activity would continue beyond July 7, with isolated heavy showers expected between July 8 and July 10, while rainfall intensity is likely to increase again from July 11.
“Heavy rainfall activity is likely to continue till around July 12. Thereafter, between July 12 and July 16-17, the monsoon is expected to become even more active across the state. During this period, districts such as Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Solan and Sirmaur are likely to receive the highest rainfall,” he added.
On seasonal rainfall, Katiyar said, “From June 1 to July 5, the state has received about 16 per cent below-normal rainfall. Against the normal rainfall of around 180.36 mm during this period, the state has recorded nearly 151.5 mm.”
He also cautioned, “People should avoid venturing close to rivers, streams and other water bodies. Heavy rainfall may reduce visibility, make roads slippery and increase the chances of traffic accidents. We also expect partial damage to horticulture and agricultural crops in some areas.”
Appealing to residents and tourists to remain alert, Katiyar said, “We request everyone to strictly follow weather advisories and instructions issued by local authorities so that loss of life and property can be minimised.”
According to the IMD, the active monsoon phase is expected to continue across much of Himachal Pradesh until around July 22.
