Monsoon to turn vigorous Over Himachal from July 19; IMD Issues heavy rain alert
Shimla, July 18
After a brief lull in rainfall activity, the southwest monsoon is set to become vigorous over Himachal Pradesh from July 19, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting an active monsoon spell that could trigger widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall across the state.
According to the IMD, the active monsoon phase will continue from July 19 to 23, with the peak rainfall activity expected during July 20-22. Orange and Red Alerts have been issued for several districts, including Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Kullu, Shimla, Sirmaur, Hamirpur, Solan, Bilaspur and Una, where heavy to very heavy rainfall may lead to flash floods, landslides, cloudbursts and disruption of essential services.
The forecast marks a significant increase in monsoon activity after rainfall remained subdued over the past few days. Meteorologists expect the strengthening monsoon currents to bring widespread precipitation across both mid and lower hills as well as parts of the higher reaches.
In view of the warning, the Himachal Pradesh Revenue Department’s Disaster Management Cell has directed all Deputy Commissioners, District Disaster Management Authorities and Heads of Departments to activate emergency preparedness measures. District Emergency Operation Centres have been asked to function round the clock, while SDRF, NDRF, Home Guards, Fire Services and Police have been placed on alert for immediate response.
The advisory also instructs district administrations to identify vulnerable locations, position heavy machinery at landslide-prone stretches, keep relief camps and emergency supplies ready, and ensure uninterrupted power, water supply and communication services. Transport authorities have been asked to regulate traffic on vulnerable roads, while health and essential services departments have been directed to remain fully prepared.
The Tourism Department has been asked to issue advisories to visitors and coordinate travel restrictions wherever required. The public has been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during intense rainfall, stay away from rivers, streams and landslide-prone slopes, avoid crossing flooded roads and overflowing bridges, and strictly follow advisories issued by the IMD and district administrations.
Emergency helpline numbers 1070 and 1077 have also been activated for public assistance.
About the Author
