SHIMLA: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a warning for isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall in four districts of Himachal Pradesh, prompting authorities to advise the public to exercise extreme caution.
According to the IMD’s Meteorological Centre in Shimla, intense downpours are expected on July 7 across Kangra, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Shimla districts. Additionally, isolated heavy rainfall is likely to lash Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Solan, and Kullu districts.
Weather officials warned that the active monsoon conditions could cause localized waterlogging in low-lying areas, poor visibility, and slippery roads, leading to traffic congestion and vehicle skidding. Temporary disruptions to essential services and routine outdoor activities are also expected.
In its public advisory, the IMD urged residents and tourists to strictly follow traffic updates, stay away from landslides-prone areas, and maintain a safe distance from rivers and other water bodies. People have been advised to keep track of the latest weather bulletins and adhere to all state government guidelines.
The weather office noted that while this warning is based on initial atmospheric conditions from the previous day, an updated forecast will be issued shortly after reviewing fresh weather parameters.
Monsoon activity has picked up across the hill state since July 5, with the Shimla meteorological centre previously issuing Orange and Yellow alerts for heavy rainfall in various regions valid until July 12.
Over the last 24 hours, several parts of Himachal Pradesh recorded rainfall that triggered flood-like situations in some pockets and disrupted normal life. Though debris accumulation briefly halted traffic on a few national highways, authorities successfully cleared the stretches to restore vehicular movement.
Meanwhile, in the tribal Kinnaur district, Kalpa recorded a minimum temperature of 14.2 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 24.4 degrees Celsius.
