Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
New Delhi, June 20
The southwest monsoon has arrived in Himachal Pradesh five days ahead of schedule, bringing heavy rainfall and triggering landslides in several parts of the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that monsoon rains reached Shimla city, Kinnaur, Sirmaur, and parts of Mandi district on Friday. Rainfall activity is expected to spread to the rest of the state over the next two to three days.
With the onset of the monsoon, several hilly regions reported moderate to heavy showers. Landslides have been reported in some areas, disrupting movement and raising safety concerns. IMD scientist Shobhit Katiyar said the monsoon has become active across many areas of the state, with significant rainfall recorded. “We have issued an orange alert for Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, and Sirmaur for 22 and 23 June,” he said. A yellow alert is in place for Shimla, Solan, and Mandi districts.
The weather department has forecast heavy rainfall across the state for the next seven days. Residents, particularly those living near rivers, streams, and landslide-prone slopes, have been advised to remain cautious. The officials have urged people to avoid venturing into vulnerable areas and to follow safety guidelines as the monsoon strengthens.
