Residents have been advised to avoid venturing near rivers, nullahs and landslide-prone slopes.
Shimla: Himachal Pradesh is preparing for another spell of intense monsoon activity after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast widespread rainfall over the next 48 hours. With the possibility of heavy to extremely heavy showers in several districts, authorities have stepped up preparedness and advised people to remain cautious.
The weather office has predicted that July 19 will witness light to moderate rain across most parts of the state, while isolated areas in Kangra, Mandi and Kullu are expected to receive heavy rainfall. These districts have been placed under an Orange Alert. A Yellow Alert has also been issued for Shimla, Solan, Sirmaur, Chamba, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Una, Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti, where rainfall intensity could increase during the day.
Meteorologists have indicated that the weather is likely to worsen further on July 20, prompting the department to issue a Red Alert for Mandi, Kangra, Shimla, Solan, Sirmaur, Hamirpur and Una. Extremely heavy rainfall is expected in these districts, raising concerns over possible weather-related disruptions. Kullu, Bilaspur and Chamba will continue under an Orange Alert.
The state administration has directed district officials, disaster management teams and emergency services to remain on standby in anticipation of any adverse situation arising from the forecast.
According to the IMD, persistent rainfall may trigger flash floods, landslides, mudslides and rockfalls, especially in hilly and vulnerable regions. Water levels in rivers, streams and seasonal drains are also expected to rise rapidly. There is a possibility of road closures, traffic disruptions and interruptions in electricity and drinking water supply if the rain intensifies.
Residents have been advised to avoid venturing near rivers, nullahs and landslide-prone slopes. The administration has also urged people to postpone non-essential travel, particularly on mountain roads where visibility and road conditions may deteriorate quickly during heavy rain.
Tourists visiting Himachal Pradesh have been requested to monitor official weather bulletins and verify road conditions before travelling to popular destinations. Authorities said timely precautions could help prevent accidents and ensure public safety during the active monsoon spell.
With forecasts indicating continued rainfall in the coming days, officials have appealed to the public to remain alert, cooperate with local authorities and strictly follow all advisories issued by the weather department and disaster management agencies.
