The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for five districts in Himachal Pradesh, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next two to three days. The weather office has also cautioned about the possibility of landslides, flash floods, rising river levels and travel disruptions.
IMD Himachal Pradesh Centre Head Shobhit Katiyar on Monday said the southwest monsoon is expected to stay active across the state for at least another week. The heaviest rain is likely in the mid-hill and adjoining lower hill regions.
"We have issued an orange alert for Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla and Solan districts for the next two to three days. Some places in these districts may receive heavy to very heavy rainfall," Katiyar said.
He said the rainy spell is expected to continue beyond July 7. Isolated heavy showers are likely between July 8 and July 10, while rainfall activity is expected to intensify again from July 11.
"Heavy rainfall activity is likely to continue till around July 12. Thereafter, between July 12 and July 16-17, the monsoon is expected to become even more active across the state. During this period, districts such as Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Solan and Sirmaur are likely to receive the highest rainfall," Katiyar added.
Despite the forecast, the state has so far received below-normal rainfall this monsoon season. From June 1 to July 5, Himachal recorded around 151.5 mm of rain, about 16 per cent below the normal average of 180.36 mm.
Katiyar warned that continuous rain could increase the risk of landslides and mudslides, especially in vulnerable areas. Water levels in rivers, streams and other water bodies are also expected to rise.
He advised people to stay away from rivers and streams, as heavy rain could make roads slippery, reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents. He also said horticulture and agricultural crops could suffer partial damage in some areas.
Urging residents and tourists to remain alert, Katiyar appealed to people to follow weather advisories issued by the IMD, the state government and local district administrations.
"We request everyone to follow all weather advisories and instructions issued by local authorities so that loss of life and property can be minimised," he said.
According to the IMD, the active phase of the southwest monsoon is expected to continue across most parts of Himachal Pradesh until around July 22. The mid-hill districts are likely to receive the heaviest rainfall before the intensity gradually decreases after July 23.
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