Himachal Pradesh Battered by Heavy Rainfall: IMD Issues Orange Alert

Significant rainfall in Himachal Pradesh has led to an orange alert for several districts. Joginder Nagar in Mandi district recorded 110 mm of rain in 24 hours. The state faces a monsoon deficit, however, residents are advised to stay vigilant due to potential landslides and flooding.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) in Himachal Pradesh has reported significant rainfall across the state, with Joginder Nagar in Mandi district experiencing the highest at 110 millimeters within 24 hours. Dr. Kuldeep Srivastava, head of IMD Himachal Pradesh, said on Wednesday that alerts were issued for various regions.

'We have recorded the highest rainfall at Joginder Nagar in Mandi district at 110 millimeters during the past 24 hours. It is heavy rainfall, and in Sirmaur district, we have received heavy rainfall,' Dr. Srivastava stated. 'In other parts of the state, there has been moderate rainfall. Nearly 75 percent of areas have received between 30 to 50 millimeters of rainfall in the past 24 hours,' Srivastava told ANI. The IMD has issued an orange alert for the lower Himalayan districts of Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Chamba, and Mandi.

'We had issued an alert for 24 hours and have now issued an orange alert for these regions,' Dr. Srivastava said, emphasizing the need for caution and preparedness. Despite the recent downpours, the state still faces a deficit in monsoon rainfall.

'Starting from June 1st, we still have a deficit of monsoon rainfall at minus-30 percent,' Dr. Srivastava noted. 'In Shimla city, since yesterday, we have received 27 millimeters of rainfall, but overall, Shimla still has a minus-7 percent rainfall deficit for the season, which is within normal limits,' he added.

The IMD predicts continued rainfall in the coming days, particularly in certain areas. 'In a few stations of Kangra and Kullu, heavy rainfall will continue over the next five days, and on the 10th, we expect particularly heavy rainfall,' Dr. Srivastava informed. 'We will have light to moderate rainfall throughout the season.' Residents in the affected regions are advised to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities. The IMD will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates.

The recent rainfall has brought both relief and challenges to the state, with water resources being replenished but also raising concerns about potential landslides and flooding in vulnerable areas. The state administration is on high alert, coordinating efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens. The incessant downpour has affected daily life, making it challenging for residents and visitors alike. The cloudburst and flash floods that occurred on August 1 have affected the districts of Kullu, Mandi and Shimla.

(With inputs from agencies.)