The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted rainfall for several districts in Himachal Pradesh over the next five days. A yellow alert has been issued for Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Solan, Sirmaur, Shimla, Una, Bilaspur, and Hamirpur.
Sandeep Kumar Sharma, Senior Scientist at IMD Himachal Pradesh, reported that in the past 24 hours, most areas in Himachal Pradesh experienced light to moderate rainfall. “Districts of Una, Solan, and Hamirpur experienced heavy rains with Una recording the highest at 100 mm. Bilaspur also saw heavy rainfall, and Nadaun reported 72 mm. Solan and Kasauli also experienced significant rainfall,” he stated.
Sharma further noted, “Over the next five to six days, moderate rainfall is expected in most mid-hill areas. From August 12 to 14, heavy rains are anticipated in parts of Solan, Sirmaur, and Una districts. After August 15, most areas will see light to moderate rains. A yellow alert has been issued for these regions in the state.”
He also mentioned that while August has seen a 21 percent increase in rainfall compared to normal, the overall monsoon season’s rainfall is 22 percent below normal. “In districts like Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, Una, and Bilaspur, monsoon rains have been normal. However, Lahaul-Spiti has recorded a significant shortfall, with rainfall 73 percent below normal. Chamba, Lahaul-Spiti, and Kinnaur have received less rainfall this month, whereas other districts have seen normal to above-normal levels,” Sharma added.
The official also warned that Sirmaur, Solan, and Shimla are expected to experience fog and poor visibility due to low-level clouds, with temperatures remaining below normal. Residents in the areas under the yellow alert are advised to stay vigilant.