Himachal Pradesh Braces for Heavy Rainfall: IMD Issues Orange Alert

The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for Himachal Pradesh, forecasting heavy rainfall in multiple districts. Proactive measures have been taken by the state government, urging tourists to exercise caution. Light to moderate rain with thunderstorms is also expected across various districts in the state.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for several districts in Himachal Pradesh, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall on Monday and Tuesday. The IMD has also indicated that light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, is likely in various regions of the state.

The districts expected to be affected include Kangra (Dharmsala, Jaisingpur), Mandi (Sarkaghat, Dharmpur, Slapper, Kotli, Mandi, Sundernagar), Hamirpur (Sujanpur Tihra, Hamirpur), Bilaspur (Swarghat, Bilaspur), Chamba, Solan, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Kullu. Earlier this month, heavy rainfall caused the closure of 70 roads and disrupted 51 water supply schemes, along with 84 electricity supply schemes in Himachal Pradesh.

Additional Chief Secretary Onkar Chand Sharma provided an update on the rain situation, emphasizing the government's proactive measures. Sharma urged tourists to heed local advisories and avoid rivers and streams. Reflecting on last year's extreme weather, he noted that despite 400% extra rainfall, the government's preparedness saved lives. The IMD forecasts a normal monsoon this year, but the state remains prepared for any extreme conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)