Key Facts
Shimla: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for heavy rainfall in five districts of Himachal Pradesh — Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur — effective from Wednesday, July 8, until July 11. The alert warns of intense showers, thunderstorms, and lightning at isolated places. The monsoon has once again become active across the state, with most regions expected to experience light to moderate rain over the next few days.
Detailed Weather Forecast
According to the Meteorological Centre Shimla, Wednesday will see light to moderate rain in most parts of the state, with heavy downpours likely in some areas of Mandi and Shimla. Intermittent rain is expected to continue in Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur over the coming days. Higher reaches may also receive light to moderate precipitation.
Rainfall in Last 24 Hours
In the past 24 hours, most parts of the state recorded light to moderate rainfall. The highest rainfall of 50 mm was recorded in Guler, Kangra district. Other significant rainfall totals include 30 mm each in Sarahan (Shimla) and Sundarnagar (Mandi), and 20 mm each in Nadaun and Sujanpur Tihara (Hamirpur). Light rain was also reported in Shimla city, Nahan, Jogindernagar, and several other locations.
Warnings and Precautions
The IMD has cautioned that heavy rain may trigger landslides, subsidence of loose slopes, waterlogging in low-lying areas, and traffic disruptions. Drivers are advised to be extra cautious due to slippery roads and reduced visibility. The department has urged people to avoid venturing near rivers and streams, postpone non-essential travel, and follow directives issued by local authorities.
Temperature Outlook
Weather scientists indicate that minimum temperatures are unlikely to change significantly over the next three to four days. However, maximum temperatures may rise slightly before dropping by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius. The active monsoon is expected to continue bringing rain in the coming days.
PWD Preparedness for Monsoon
The Public Works Department (PWD) has completed preparations to tackle potential natural disasters during the monsoon season. PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh chaired a review meeting with departmental officials on Tuesday, directing them to remain on a war footing to handle any emergency.
Deployment of Workforce and Machinery
Minister Singh stated that approximately 15,500 employees have been deployed across the state to restore road connectivity. This includes 11,137 beldars and 4,228 multi-task workers. Additionally, 1,156 departmental and private machines — including JCBs, dozers, robots, and tippers — will be available round the clock. Six Bailey bridges have also been kept ready for rapid restoration of connectivity during emergencies.
Pre-Monsoon Works Completed
Before the onset of rains, the department completed several key tasks: resurfacing of 155.95 km of roads, patchwork on 924.94 km of roads, cleaning of 8,893.58 km of drainage channels, and cleaning of 9,414 km of culverts. The minister directed that uninterrupted road connectivity to hospitals, police stations, educational institutions, fire stations, pumping stations, and power substations be given top priority. He also asked officials to prepare a list of vulnerable roads and bridges.
FAQ
Which districts are under yellow alert in Himachal?
Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur districts are under yellow alert for heavy rain until July 11.
What precautions should people take during the alert?
Avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from riverbanks and slopes, and follow administration guidelines due to risk of landslides and waterlogging.
How many workers and machines has PWD deployed for monsoon?
PWD has deployed 15,500 workers (11,137 beldars, 4,228 multi-task workers) and 1,156 machines including JCBs, dozers, and tippers.
What was the highest rainfall recorded in the last 24 hours?
Guler in Kangra recorded the highest rainfall of 50 mm in the last 24 hours.