Shimla (Rajeev Sharma): Relentless monsoon showers have intensified across Himachal Pradesh, prompting authorities to issue fresh weather warnings and enforce precautionary measures in several districts. As heavy rainfall continues to batter the hill state, schools in parts of Chamba district and Theog subdivision of Shimla have been ordered to remain closed to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a Red Alert for Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi and Sirmaur, warning of extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places. Officials have cautioned that the prevailing weather conditions could trigger landslides, flash floods, falling boulders and waterlogging in low-lying regions.
A separate flash flood warning has also been issued for Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Solan, Sirmaur, Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti, urging residents to stay away from rivers, streams and other vulnerable locations. The advisory remains in force through the evening, with authorities advising against non-essential travel on mountain roads.
Rain Likely to Continue Through the Week
The wet spell is expected to persist beyond Monday. The Meteorological Department has issued an Orange Alert for Una, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur on Tuesday, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall. Bilaspur, Chamba, Kullu, Solan and Shimla are also likely to witness widespread showers.
Weather experts expect rainfall activity to continue over the next few days, although the western disturbance influencing the region may gradually weaken after July 23. Even then, isolated heavy showers are forecast to continue in parts of Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi and Shimla.
Another round of intense rainfall is anticipated on July 24, with Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Solan, Sirmaur and Hamirpur expected to receive significant precipitation. Rain is likely to remain active in parts of the state until July 25.
Cooler Temperatures Bring Temporary Relief
The widespread rainfall has resulted in a noticeable fall in daytime temperatures across Himachal Pradesh. Several locations have recorded temperatures well below seasonal averages, with Chamba registering one of the sharpest declines. The town reported a maximum temperature of 28.4 degrees Celsius, around 5.6 degrees below normal, providing temporary respite from the summer heat.
Seasonal Rainfall Still Below Average
Despite the recent surge in rainfall, the state’s cumulative monsoon figures continue to remain below normal. From June 1 to July 20, Himachal Pradesh has received approximately 210 mm of rainfall against the normal average of 256.8 mm, reflecting an overall 18 per cent rainfall deficit.
The shortfall is particularly pronounced in Lahaul-Spiti, followed by Hamirpur, Mandi, Bilaspur, Kangra and Sirmaur, where seasonal rainfall remains significantly below average.
The state administration has advised residents and tourists to closely follow official weather updates, avoid travelling through landslide-prone stretches and cooperate with local authorities until weather conditions improve.
