Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, July 19
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Himachal Pradesh, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall from July 20 to 24, as the monsoon is set to regain intensity across the region. Officials at the Meteorological Centre in Shimla said that nearly all districts in the State, barring Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti, recorded rainfall over the past 24 hours. Sandeep Kumar Sharma, a senior meteorologist, said the monsoon system is expected to become more active starting the evening of July 20, bringing widespread and intense precipitation.
The orange alert specifically applies to Solan, Shimla, Sirmaur, Mandi and Kangra districts on July 21 and 22. A yellow alert has been issued for Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Chamba districts during the same period.
“The cutting activity in the mountains due to rain, combined with water-logging and fragile terrain, increases the risk of landslides and flash floods,” Sharma said, urging residents and travellers to exercise caution. The State Disaster Management Authority has been notified, and local administrations are likely to remain on high alert through the forecast period. The IMD also advised against travel to higher reaches during the alert window and urged residents in low-lying areas to remain prepared for possible flooding.
Himachal Pradesh remains prone to extreme weather events during the monsoon season, particularly in July and August. Last year’s deluge led to significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure. Officials hope that early warnings and preparedness will help mitigate the risks this year.
