Shimla (Rajeev Sharma): Himachal Pradesh is likely to remain under a prolonged spell of unsettled weather, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting rain across the state through August 20 and warning of particularly intense showers over the next few days.
The weather department has issued alerts for several districts, with the possibility of very heavy rainfall on August 17 and 18. The warning comes as the monsoon season has already caused significant loss of life and extensive damage to property across the hill state.
A Yellow Alert has been issued for Bilaspur, Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur, while similar warnings are in place for Chamba, Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur on August 16.
Heavy rain likely on August 17-18
According to the IMD forecast, a Western Disturbance is expected to strengthen from Saturday night. Its influence, along with the prevailing monsoon system, could result in intense rainfall in different parts of Himachal Pradesh.
Authorities have advised people to exercise caution, especially in locations vulnerable to landslides and flash floods. Residents and tourists have also been urged to stay updated with official weather advisories before travelling.
Monsoon claims 181 lives
The continuing rain has added to an already grim monsoon record in Himachal Pradesh.
According to the latest figures, 181 people have died during the monsoon season so far. Road accidents account for the majority of fatalities, with 103 deaths reported.
Landslides have claimed 14 lives, while one person has died in a flash-flood incident.
The figures cover the broader impact of the monsoon across the state, where heavy rain, landslides and difficult terrain have repeatedly disrupted normal life.
Damage estimated at ₹955 crore
The financial impact has also been substantial. Government estimates put the combined damage to public and private property at approximately ₹955 crore.
As many as 82 houses have been completely damaged, while another 164 houses have sustained partial damage.
The forecast of another spell of heavy rain has raised concerns about further damage in vulnerable areas.
State records 10% rainfall deficit
Despite the frequent bouts of heavy rain, Himachal Pradesh has received less rainfall than its seasonal average so far.
From June 1 to August 14, the state recorded around 446 mm of rainfall, against the normal figure of 497.2 mm for the period. The overall deficit stands at approximately 10 per cent.
The rainfall, however, has been unevenly distributed, with some areas experiencing intense spells while others continue to remain below their normal seasonal totals.
Mercury drops after rainfall
The latest rain also brought a noticeable fall in temperatures across the state.
Shimla’s maximum temperature dropped by 3.8°C to 22.6°C, while Una recorded a fall of 4°C to 32.2°C. Keylong saw one of the sharpest declines, with the mercury falling by 4.8°C to 21.7°C.
Manali recorded a maximum of 24.6°C after a 4°C decline, while Mandi and Kangra registered temperatures of 30.6°C and 30.3°C, respectively.
With the weather department expecting another active phase of the monsoon, Himachal Pradesh faces several more days of rain-related challenges even as the state observes Independence Day.
