The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has escalated weather warnings for Himachal Pradesh, issuing an orange alert due to anticipated heavy rainfall over the next few days. The agency has also forecasted widespread showers in Uttarakhand, signaling an active monsoon phase in the Himalayan states. Residents in sensitive areas are urged to remain cautious as intense rains may trigger landslides, disrupt transportation, and pose risks to local communities.
According to the IMD bulletin, isolated regions in Himachal Pradesh, particularly Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi, could witness rainfall exceeding 150 mm within 24 hours. The alerts emphasize preparedness, with disaster response teams placed on standby and authorities advising against travel in vulnerable zones during peak downpours. Uttarakhandâs Dehradun, Nainital, and Champawat districts are similarly expected to experience heavy showers, compounding concerns after recent flash floods in parts of the state.
The orange alert, second only to the highest red alert in severity, underscores the potential for significant disruption. Farmers have been advised to secure harvested crops, while tourists planning visits to hill stations are being cautioned about hazardous road conditions. IMD scientists attribute the intensified rainfall to a confluence of monsoon winds and western disturbances, a pattern likely to persist through the weekend.
Meanwhile, Uttarakhandâs disaster management teams are monitoring river levels closely, especially in areas where water sources breached danger marks earlier this month. The state government has activated emergency protocols, including pre-positioning relief supplies and setting up round-the-clock control rooms. Weather experts note that these rains align with forecasts of an above-average monsoon season, offering respite to agricultural regions but raising flood risks in urban and mountainous terrain.
As northern India grapples with these developments, the IMD confirms the monsoon has now advanced into remaining parts of Uttar Pradesh, promising relief from prolonged heatwaves. However, the focus remains on safeguarding lives and infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, where communities still recall last yearâs devastating rain-related tragedies. Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official channels and heed evacuation advisories promptly.
