Severe weather alert: Himachal Pradesh braces for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, in next 5 days
Shimla, July 7
Himachal Pradesh is gearing up for a tumultuous weather pattern in the coming days as meteorological experts predicted continued rainfall, thunderstorms, and the possibility of landslides across the state. The inclement weather conditions are expected to persist for the next five days until 08:30 IST on July 12, 2023.
According to the weather forecast, most parts of Himachal Pradesh will experience light to moderate precipitation accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. The ongoing rainfall activities are anticipated to intensify, with spells of heavy to very heavy rainfall primarily affecting the low and mid hill districts of the state. The districts of Chamba, Kangra, Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Solan, Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Sirmaur are particularly vulnerable, with isolated areas expecting spells of torrential downpours on July 8th and 9th, under the influence of an active western disturbance.
The forecast also highlights the likelihood of thunderstorms and lightning occurring in low and mid hill districts, posing additional risks to the affected areas. Residents are advised to exercise caution and avoid open areas during these thunderstorms.
Furthermore, average maximum temperatures are projected to remain 2 to 4 degrees below normal for the next 3 to 4 days, while average minimum temperatures are expected to remain within the normal range for the next 4 to 5 days.
Impacts and Advisory:
The expected heavy rainfall and severe weather conditions raise concerns about potential disruptions to essential services, including transportation, electricity, and communication networks. In hilly districts, flash floods are a distinct possibility, particularly in vulnerable areas such as Shimla, Mandi, Kullu, Sirmaur, and Solan. Road blockages due to landslides can be expected in several regions, adding to the potential for traffic congestion.
Additionally, poor visibility conditions caused by heavy rainfall may hinder commuting, posing challenges to daily activities. Localized flooding of roads may further compound transportation issues. Authorities urge residents and travelers to stay updated on traffic advisories and plan their journeys accordingly.
To ensure safety during thunderstorms, it is recommended to avoid open areas. Furthermore, with reduced visibility in hilly districts, individuals should exercise caution while commuting and be mindful of the potential for landslides.
Precautionary Measures:
Given the anticipated weather conditions, it is crucial to take proactive measures to minimize risks and ensure personal safety. Individuals planning to travel should check for traffic congestion along their routes and adhere to any traffic advisories issued by the authorities. It is advisable to avoid areas that are prone to waterlogging problems and stay updated with advisories and guidelines provided by the relevant departments.
The local administration is working closely with meteorological agencies to monitor the situation closely and take necessary steps to mitigate the impact of the anticipated severe weather conditions. However, it is essential for residents and tourists to remain vigilant, stay informed about the changing weather patterns, and follow official instructions to ensure their safety and well-being.
As the monsoon season unfolds, Himachal Pradesh continues to experience the power and unpredictability of nature. By staying prepared and united, the people of Himachal Pradesh can face these challenges head-on and emerge stronger from the trials of nature’s fury.
So far the monsoon has claimed 43 lives, 79 have been injured whereas 4 have gone missing. A cumulative loss of 371.025 Crore has been estimated so far. In this ongoing monsoon, 12 landslides, one cloudburst and 11 flash floods have been recorded.
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