Shimla (Rajeev Sharma): The weather situation in Himachal Pradesh is expected to remain challenging over the next couple of days, with the Meteorological Department forecasting intense rainfall in several parts of the state. An orange warning has been issued for select districts, prompting authorities to caution residents and tourists against entering areas vulnerable to flash floods and landslides.
For August 10, Kangra and Sirmaur have been placed under an orange alert, while the warning shifts to Kangra and Mandi on August 11. The forecast includes the possibility of heavy to very heavy rain in isolated areas.
The combination of saturated slopes and swollen water channels could create problems for road traffic, particularly in mountainous stretches. Authorities have advised people to stay away from rivers, streams and nullahs and avoid travelling through known landslide-prone zones during heavy showers.
Kullu reports two stream-related deaths
The latest warning comes after two bodies were recovered from water bodies in Kullu on Sunday.
One body was pulled out from Manalsu Nullah in Old Manali, while another was recovered from the Parvati River near Manikaran. The deceased were identified as Darnal, a Nepal national employed as a tailor in Old Manali, and Devendra Kumar, 25, a resident of Manikaran.
The recoveries underline the risks posed by rapidly rising water levels during the ongoing monsoon.
Rain to persist, intensity may ease later
Rain has already been reported from several parts of Himachal Pradesh, including Shimla, since Sunday night. According to the weather department, precipitation is likely to remain a feature across the state until August 15.
The intensity is expected to gradually ease after August 11 as the Western Disturbance weakens. Some parts of the state could then receive light to moderate showers rather than the heavier spells currently forecast.
State records 8% rainfall deficit
Despite the latest wet spell, Himachal Pradesh has recorded an overall 8% rainfall deficit during the ongoing monsoon season.
Seven districts remain below their normal rainfall levels, whereas five districts have received more precipitation than their seasonal averages.
With heavy rain forecast in the immediate term, authorities have urged people to rely on official advisories before planning travel. Tourists and residents in vulnerable areas have particularly been asked not to take risks near water bodies or unstable slopes.
