The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced that active monsoon conditions are anticipated across Himachal Pradesh until August 3. This period is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall in numerous districts, prompting the issuance of orange and yellow alerts for various regions in the state. The IMD’s forecast indicates significant precipitation is likely over the next few days.

In a statement made by Sandeep Kumar Sharma, a senior scientist at the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, it was highlighted that widespread rainfall has already been recorded in the previous 24 hours. Notably affected districts include Chamba, Bilaspur, and Mandi. According to Sharma, the monsoon has remained active, with considerable amounts of rainfall observed in these areas.

Chamba district reported the highest rainfall, with 140 mm recorded at Saho. Bilaspur followed closely with 118 mm. Additionally, other locations within Mandi and Shimla also experienced noteworthy rainfall amounts, contributing to the overall precipitation across the state.

District-Specific Alerts and Predictions

The IMD has issued an Orange Alert for Kangra and Mandi districts for July 28 due to expected heavy to very heavy rainfall. A Yellow Alert has been put into place for Chamba, Kullu, Shimla, and several other districts, where the likelihood of heavy rainfall is high. As the forecast moves into July 29, an Orange Alert will remain valid for Sirmaur district, while Kullu and Mandi will experience heavy rainfall under a Yellow Alert.

On July 30, heavy rainfall is anticipated in Bilaspur, Chamba, and Kangra, which will also be under an Orange Alert. Other districts are expected to contend with heavy rain at isolated locations, adhering to Yellow Alert warnings. As the forecast extends to July 31 and August 1, the intensity of heavy rainfall is projected to decrease, although isolated heavy showers may continue in Chamba district.

Currently, there are no alerts for extreme weather conditions. Weather patterns had indicated intense rainfall early today, but indicators suggest that conditions are easing. However, should weather systems intensify, the IMD may issue warnings for flash heavy rainfall accordingly.

Current Rainfall Status and Temperature Changes

As of now, Himachal Pradesh has recorded a 6 per cent excess in rainfall during the current southwest monsoon season, falling within the normal range. Some districts, including Hamirpur, Kangra, Lahaul and Spiti, and Mandi, have experienced below-normal rainfall, while the remaining regions report normal to above-normal precipitation levels.

July alone has seen a 7 per cent increase in normal rainfall, which is also classified as within the acceptable range. The aforementioned four districts continue to show below-normal levels for this month, while the rest of the state has recorded typical to above-standard rainfall figures.

Temperature readings in the state have decreased by approximately one degree Celsius over the past day due to extensive rainfall, and are expected to maintain normal levels over the following days. Lower hill districts such as Mandi and Bilaspur are likely to see temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius, whereas higher hill stations, including Manali, are projected to have maximum readings near 27 degrees Celsius.

Motorists are encouraged to remain vigilant, especially in Shimla and Solan, where low visibility conditions may arise due to rain and low cloud cover. Heavy precipitation could significantly affect travel conditions, necessitating caution among drivers in these regions.

In recent developments, heavy rainfall has led to a landslide that blocked the Cart Road near the Lift in Shimla, though the road has since been restored. Beyond that, over 230 roads remain closed throughout Himachal Pradesh due to the continuing heavy rainfall experienced within the past 24 hours.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share