Himachal Pradesh is likely to see stronger monsoon activity from Monday evening, with heavy to very heavy rain expected in several areas until August 11, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
IMD Himachal Pradesh Senior Scientist Sandeep Kumar Sharma said several parts of the state received light to moderate rain over the past 24 hours. Dharamshala recorded the highest rainfall at 61 mm, followed by Arki in Solan with 25 mm. Shimla city received around 40 mm of rain.
Sharma said rainfall is expected to increase from Monday evening and remain active through August 11. Many areas, especially the middle and higher hills, may receive light to moderate showers, with some places likely to experience intense spells.
The IMD has placed Chamba, Kangra and Mandi under an orange alert for August 10 and 11. The warning indicates the possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall. A yellow alert has been issued for Una, Bilaspur and Shimla, while some other areas could also receive heavy rain.
Rainfall is expected to ease slightly on August 12 and 13. Weather activity during these two days is likely to remain mainly around the central and nearby districts. Some areas could still get heavy showers, with a yellow alert in parts of Chamba, Bilaspur, Kangra and Mandi.
The monsoon is expected to become active again from August 14 and remain so until August 16. The forecast points to widespread moderate rainfall across the state, along with isolated spells of heavy rain.
Sharma said Himachal Pradesh has received 9 per cent less rainfall than normal between June 1 and August 10. Mandi is the only district that has recorded below-normal rainfall during this period, while most other districts have received normal or above-normal precipitation.
The IMD has asked residents and tourists to remain careful while travelling during the period of active monsoon conditions. Sharma said heavy rain could cause sudden increases in the water levels of rivers, streams and other water bodies. He advised people to check weather and road conditions before travelling and avoid unnecessary journeys during bad weather.
The weather office has also warned of poor visibility in parts of Shimla, Solan and nearby areas because of low clouds and occasional heavy showers.
Temperatures are expected to remain close to normal across the state. Shimla recorded around 24°C, while Solan saw temperatures between 27°C and 29°C. Una and Bilaspur recorded temperatures ranging from 32°C to 34°C.
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