Heavy to very heavy rain likely in HP, Orange alert issued; IMD warns of flooding, landslides
Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Heavy to very heavy rain likely in HP, Orange alert issued; IMD warns of flooding, landslides
Shimla, July 6,
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for Himachal Pradesh, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places as an active southwest monsoon is expected to intensify across the state over the next few days.
The weather office has forecast widespread rainfall till July 12, with heavy rain likely at isolated places almost every day, while heavy to very heavy rainfall has been predicted on July 6 and 7.
The IMD has urged people to strictly follow advisories issued by the Himachal Pradesh government and district administrations as the state braces for another intense spell of monsoon activity. Residents and tourists have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in landslide-prone areas, and remain alert to rapidly changing weather conditions.
The warning comes as monsoon rains have already caused widespread disruption in the tribal district of Kinnaur. Flash floods triggered by cloudbursts and intense rainfall blocked the strategic National Highway-5 near Cholling after torrents of water, mud and boulders swept onto the road. The Ribba-Kande link road was also washed away at several places, snapping connectivity to remote villages. Several vehicles were damaged in the incidents, though no casualties or injuries have been reported so far.
With the monsoon having entered Himachal Pradesh on June 30, dark rain-bearing clouds have already engulfed most parts of the state. Meteorologists have cautioned that the coming days could witness one of the season’s most active spells, increasing the risk of flash floods, landslides, waterlogging and disruption to road traffic.
Authorities have appealed to commuters to plan their journeys carefully after checking the latest weather bulletins, as highways and interior roads may be affected by falling rocks, debris and overflowing streams. Waterlogging is also likely in low-lying areas, while people living along river banks, seasonal rivulets and other water bodies have been advised to shift to safer places if required and avoid venturing near swollen rivers.
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An unusual feature of the current monsoon is the increased rainfall activity expected over the tribal districts of Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti and adjoining higher reaches, which generally receive a larger share of their annual precipitation during the winter months in the form of snowfall.
The enhanced monsoon activity in these ecologically fragile areas has heightened concerns over flash floods, slope failures and road blockades.
During the past 24 hours, Jogindernagar recorded the highest rainfall in the state at 97 mm, followed by Kangra 74.8 mm, Palampur 35.4 mm, Bharwain 34 mm, Sarahan 32.5 mm and Rohru 30 mm. The lowest minimum temperature was recorded at Kukumseri at 11.1 degrees Celsius, while Bilaspur was the hottest place with a maximum temperature of 36 degrees Celsius. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning were reported from Bhuntar and Kangra.
The IMD has advised district administrations to remain prepared for possible disruptions to essential services and transport, while asking residents and visitors to stay updated through official weather bulletins and comply with safety instructions throughout the active monsoon spell.
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