Shimla (Rajeev Sharma): After several days of widespread showers and weather-related disruptions, Himachal Pradesh is likely to witness a temporary reduction in rainfall over the next two days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that the intensity of the monsoon will weaken briefly before another active spell begins from July 6 with the arrival of a fresh Western Disturbance.
The weather department said most parts of the state are expected to experience relatively calm conditions over the next 48 hours. Except for isolated light showers in a few districts, no major weather alerts have been issued for Saturday and Sunday, giving authorities an opportunity to accelerate restoration work in areas affected by recent rains.
However, the situation is expected to change from Monday onwards. The IMD has forecast a renewed spell of widespread rainfall across the state after the Western Disturbance interacts with the monsoon system. Orange Alerts have been issued for Kangra, Mandi, Shimla and Sirmaur districts for July 6 and 7, while Yellow Alerts are in place for Una, Hamirpur, Chamba and Kullu. Heavy rainfall is also expected to continue at several locations through July 8 and 9.
Meteorologists said temperatures may rise slightly over the weekend because of reduced rainfall, but another fall in mercury is likely once the fresh wet spell begins early next week.
Even as rainfall eases temporarily, the impact of the recent downpour remains evident across the hill state. A number of roads are still closed due to landslides and debris, while power distribution and drinking water supply have been disrupted in several areas. Public Works, electricity and Jal Shakti Department teams are continuing restoration operations to restore normal services.
Weather data released by the IMD shows that Himachal Pradesh has received substantially more rainfall than the seasonal average during the first few days of July. Kinnaur has reported the largest rainfall surplus in the state, while districts including Kullu, Shimla, Solan, Sirmaur, Kangra, Chamba and Una have also recorded precipitation well above normal levels. Lahaul and Spiti remains the only district where rainfall has stayed below the seasonal average.
Officials have urged people not to lower their guard despite the expected break in heavy rain. Travellers have been advised to remain cautious on mountain roads, avoid vulnerable slopes during adverse weather, and stay updated with official forecasts, as another round of intense monsoon activity is expected to affect large parts of Himachal Pradesh in the coming days.
