Red and Orange alerts across Himachal districts
Shimla, Aug 25,
The Meteorological Centre Shimla on Monday sounded red and orange alerts in several districts of Himachal Pradesh, warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and the possibility of landslides and flash floods. The alerts, valid from noon to 3 pm, have put much of the hill state on high weather alert, with authorities urging residents and tourists to exercise caution.
In Shimla city and adjoining areas, light to moderate rain accompanied by one or two intense spells is expected, with the weather office cautioning about low visibility conditions. The Manimahesh Yatra route has also been placed under a red alert due to the likelihood of heavy downpours posing a risk to pilgrims.
Across the state, Chamba and Kangra districts are under the highest category of alert, with forecasts of widespread light to moderate rain, thunderstorms, lightning and intense spells at isolated locations. A similar situation is likely in Kullu, Mandi, Hamirpur, Bilaspur and Una, where orange warnings have been issued, while Shimla, Lahaul-Spiti and Solan are also likely to witness heavy showers with thunderstorms during the day. Other districts of the state are expected to see light to moderate rain at scattered places.
The meteorological bulletin has cautioned about possible landslides, mudslides and flash floods in vulnerable areas, traffic disruption on hill roads, and damage to kutcha houses and temporary shelters. Farmers have been advised to take protective measures to safeguard standing crops from excess rainfall, while residents in landslide-prone zones have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel and shift to safer locations if required.
With the monsoon intensifying in the region, authorities remain on alert as the next 24 hours are expected to be critical, particularly in the mid and lower hills that are more vulnerable to heavy rainfall events.
About the Author
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.
