Intermittent Rains Continue to Lash Himachal Pradesh, Yellow Alert Issued

Intermittent rains continued to lash parts of Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday, prompting the local Met office to issue a 'yellow alert' for heavy rains in isolated areas for the next four days.

The meteorological department in Shimla has forecast continued wet spells till July 23.

Authorities have warned of potential damage to plantations, horticulture, and standing crops, along with partial damage to vulnerable structures and minor harm to kutcha houses and huts due to strong winds and heavy rain. Disruptions in traffic and waterlogging in low-lying areas are also anticipated.

Dharamshala recorded the heaviest rainfall in the past 24 hours with 99.4 mm, followed by Olinda with 94.6 mm. Other areas also reported significant rainfall.

Since the onset of the monsoon on June 27 till July 17, the state has incurred losses amounting to Rs 186 crores, with 31 fatalities reported in rain-related incidents, according to the state emergency operation centre.

Kukumseri in Lahaul and Spiti recorded the lowest night temperature at 12.1 degrees Celsius, while Una was the hottest place during the day with a maximum temperature of 35.2 degrees Celsius.

Overall, Himachal Pradesh received 88.7 mm of rain against the normal 129 mm, resulting in a deficit of 31 percent from July 1 to July 17.

(With inputs from agencies.)