Heavy Rainfall Alert Issued in Himachal Pradesh as Monsoon Resurfaces

Shimla, August 18: The monsoon has become active once again in Himachal Pradesh. The Meteorological Department has forecast light to moderate rainfall across various regions of the state over the next four to five days.

An orange alert has been issued for Una, Chamba, and Kangra starting Tuesday. Previously, alerts were also issued for Bilaspur, Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi. Heavy rainfall is expected in Kangra and Sirmaur on August 19, with continued precipitation likely in these districts and others on August 20 and 21.

The rainfall has disrupted daily life in the state. According to the State Emergency Operations Center, as of Monday night, roads were closed in Mandi (43), Kullu (33), Sirmaur (8), Shimla (7), Chamba and Kangra (6 each), Una (4), and Lahaul-Spiti (2). Additionally, 216 drinking water supply schemes and seven electricity transformers have also been affected.

In Palampur, near Kangra district, two families narrowly escaped when a tree fell on Sunday morning. The incident caused damage to a building, nearby shops, and parked vehicles. Traffic on the Palampur-Hamirpur highway was temporarily disrupted due to the fallen tree.

Since the onset of the monsoon on June 30, rain-related incidents have resulted in the deaths of 79 people in the state. This includes 14 fatalities due to landslides and one from flash floods. Officials estimate that the state has incurred approximately ₹973 crores in damages due to the rainfall.

The Meteorological Department has warned of strong winds reaching speeds of 30 to 40 kilometers per hour in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti between August 18 and 21. There is also a risk of thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds in lower and mid-hill areas. While no significant change in maximum temperatures is expected in the next 24 hours, temperatures may drop by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius in several areas over the next three to four days.

On August 18, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in certain areas of Bilaspur, Kangra, Mandi, and Sirmaur. Heavy rainfall is also anticipated at various locations in Una, Hamirpur, Chamba, Shimla, and Solan.

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By SAK/AS