IMD forecasts heavy rainfall for Himachal Pradesh over next 3 days, Orange alert issued for August 7 and 8

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 5 (ANI): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall for Himachal Pradesh over the next three days. An orange alert has been specifically issued for August 7 and 8, signalling the potential for severe weather conditions in the region.

Dr Kuldeep Srivastava, Head of IMD HP, explained, “The overall monsoon of the season is less than the normal. During the past 24 hours, the state has experienced 67 mm of rainfall in Hamirpur, with other stations reporting light to moderate rainfall. The state is expected to receive rainfall at isolated places over the next 24 hours.”

The IMD has noted that the monsoon trough is shifting northward, which will increase the eastern and southwestern flow of moisture. This shift is likely to result in heavy to very heavy rainfall, particularly in the Kangra, Hamirpur, and Chamba districts. “The department has consequently issued an orange alert for these areas on August 7 and 8 due to the anticipated severe weather,” he said.

“We have already issued an advisory for rain and floods in the region,” Dr Srivastava added. “Cloud cover is prevalent across the state, leading to widespread fog. Light rainfall is currently being observed in Shimla city and surrounding areas.”

Residents and travellers in Himachal Pradesh are advised to stay alert and follow safety guidelines as the weather conditions are expected to significantly impact daily activities and may lead to potential flooding.

Two incidents of flash floods at separate places in Lahaul and Spiti district in Himachal Pradesh were reported on Monday. The Manali-Leh National Highway 3 has been blocked near Zing zingbar following the flash flood incident today, police said.

The sudden surge of water, triggered by heavy rain, caused substantial damage to the road, leading to the accumulation of debris and rocks.

“All traffic is halted at Darcha and Sarchu police check posts untill the road is cleared,” the Lahaul Spiti Police said in a advisory for travellers about traffic being stopped.

According to the police, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), has been swiftly mobilised to address the situation and teams are currently on the site working to clear the debris.

“Travellers are advised to avoid the area until the highway is fully reopened. Local authorities are monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates on the progress of the clearance operation,” police said.