Orange Alert for Himachal Pradesh as IMD warns of severe weather -

Shimla, Aug 8,

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for the districts of Shimla, Kangra, Mandi, Solan, and Sirmour, for August 10, 2024. The alert indicates the likelihood of heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning.

“ Fairly widespread to widespread rainfall with isolated heavy rainfall very likely over Northeast India and Western Himalayan Region during next 7 days and over East India during next 3-4 days, stated the media communique by IMD.

Over the past 24 hours, light to moderate rain has occurred at many places across the state, with heavy rain reported in isolated areas. The highest recorded rainfall was in Shillaro, Shimla district, at 9 cm. Other significant rainfall measurements include Sundarnagar (Mandi) – 6 cm,Mandi (Mandi) – 6 cm, Chaupal (Shimla) – 6 cm, Gohar (Mandi) – 6 cm, Jogindernagar (Kangra) – 4 cm, Dharmshala (Kangra) – 2 cm, Paonta (Sirmaur) – 2 cm, Nahan (Sirmaur) – 2 cm, Manali (Kullu) – 1 cm, Nagrota Surian (Kangra) – 1 cm and Renuka / Dadhau (Sirmaur) – 1 cm.

The lowest temperature was recorded at Kukumseri 13 degrees. While the highest was recorded at Bajaura 33.3 degrees.

The 24 hours Outlook for the Flash Flood Risk (FFR) till 1130 IST of 09-08-2024 stated this afternoon that moderate flash flood risk likely over few watersheds & neighbourhoods of Chamba, Mandi, Shimla and Sirmaur districts in Himachal Pradesh during next 24 hours. Surface runoff/ Inundation may occur at some fully saturated soils & low-lying areas due to expected rainfall occurrence in next 24 hours.

Expected impacts of the heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in Himachal Pradesh include localized flooding and waterlogging in urban areas, occasional reductions in visibility, minor damage to kaccha (unpaved) roads, and risks of localized landslides, mudslides, and landslips, advised the IMD. Adding that there may be sudden increases in water flow in rivulets and rainwater streams, leading to bank erosion, overflow, and flash floods. Driving conditions could be challenging due to slippery roads and low visibility from fog or low clouds, resulting in increased travel time. Additionally, there is a risk of damage to life and property from lightning strikes, they stated.

While in such situation safety advisories include checking for traffic updates and following any advisories to avoid congestion, steering clear of areas prone to waterlogging and vulnerable structures, and residents in landslide-prone areas should remain cautious. Commuters are advised to exercise caution, avoid swimming or boating in streams during heavy rain, and stay updated by monitoring media reports.

Himachalscape bureau

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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

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