The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast an active monsoon over Himachal Pradesh for the next five to seven days, warning of heavy rainfall, landslides, flash floods, and rising water levels in several districts.
Heavy Rain Alert Continues in Himachal as IMD Forecasts Intense Monsoon Activity
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued active monsoon conditions across Himachal Pradesh, with heavy rainfall expected in several districts over the next five to seven days.
Speaking in Shimla, Shobhit Katiyar, Head of IMD Himachal Pradesh, said rainfall was recorded across nearly all districts during the past 24 hours. He added that heavy rainfall was observed in parts of Mandi and Hamirpur, while moderate showers were reported in Shimla, Hamirpur, and several other regions.
The weather department has advised residents to remain cautious as persistent rainfall may trigger landslides, flash floods, and disruptions to transportation and essential services.
Heavy Rain Forecast for Five Key Districts
According to the IMD, monsoon activity is expected to remain particularly strong in Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur during the coming week.
Katiyar said isolated locations in these districts are likely to receive heavy rainfall almost every day over the next five to seven days. Other parts of the state are also expected to experience moderate rainfall during the next four to five days.
Among the affected regions, Sirmaur, Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, and Kangra are expected to witness the most intense rainfall activity.
State Records Above-Normal Rainfall
The IMD official said Himachal Pradesh has received significantly more rainfall than usual during the current monsoon period.
According to the department, the state normally records around 51 millimetres of rainfall during this phase of the season. This year, however, rainfall has already reached approximately 65 millimetres, which is about 27 per cent above normal.
Katiyar also noted that, except for July 6, at least one district in the state has experienced heavy rainfall every day since the onset of the monsoon, indicating a continuing pattern of intermittent intense showers.
Advisories Issued for Vulnerable Districts
In view of the forecast, the IMD has issued weather advisories for Sirmaur, Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, and Kangra districts.
Although rainfall in the remaining districts is expected to remain mostly moderate, authorities have urged residents across the state to remain alert and follow official weather advisories.
The department has advised people to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall and remain updated on weather forecasts issued by local authorities.
Risk of Landslides and Flash Floods
The IMD warned that continuous heavy rainfall could increase the risk of landslides, flash floods, and rising water levels in rivers, streams, and other water bodies.
Road conditions are also expected to deteriorate in several areas due to slippery surfaces and reduced visibility, potentially affecting transport and emergency response operations.
Katiyar added that persistent rainfall may cause localised damage to agriculture and horticulture crops, particularly in vulnerable districts where heavy showers continue.
Why the Forecast Matters
Himachal Pradesh’s mountainous terrain makes it particularly vulnerable to weather-related disasters during the monsoon season.
Heavy rainfall often results in road blockages, landslides, flooding, and disruptions to public services, making timely forecasts and public advisories essential for minimising risks.
The latest IMD warning comes as state authorities continue to monitor monsoon conditions and undertake restoration work in areas already affected by rainfall.
Impact on Residents and Travellers
The extended spell of heavy rainfall could disrupt daily life, road connectivity, and tourism activities across several parts of Himachal Pradesh.
Residents have been advised to stay away from rivers, streams, landslide-prone slopes, and low-lying areas during periods of intense rainfall. Travellers are also encouraged to check weather updates before planning journeys to affected districts.
Conclusion
The India Meteorological Department has forecast an active monsoon spell across Himachal Pradesh, with heavy rainfall expected in Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur over the next five to seven days. With rainfall already running 27 per cent above normal, authorities have warned of landslides, flash floods, rising water levels, and transport disruptions, urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant and follow official advisories.
Key Takeaways
- IMD has forecast active monsoon conditions in Himachal Pradesh for the next five to seven days.
- Heavy rainfall is expected in Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur districts.
- Himachal Pradesh has received around 27% above-normal rainfall so far this monsoon.
- Authorities have warned of landslides, flash floods, slippery roads, and rising water levels.
- Residents and tourists have been advised to follow weather advisories and avoid vulnerable areas.
FAQs
Which districts are expected to receive heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh?
The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall in Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur over the next five to seven days.
How much rainfall has Himachal Pradesh received this monsoon?
According to the IMD, the state has received around 65 mm of rainfall during the current period, approximately 27% above the normal level.
What risks has the IMD highlighted?
The department has warned of landslides, flash floods, rising water levels in rivers and streams, slippery roads, poor visibility, and possible damage to agriculture and horticulture.
What precautions should residents take?
People have been advised to avoid rivers, streams, and landslide-prone areas during heavy rainfall, limit unnecessary travel, and follow weather advisories issued by the IMD and local authorities.
