Monsoon to intensify across Himachal; IMD warns of heavy rain, thunderstorms in several districts
Shimla, June 26
Monsoon activity is expected to intensify across Himachal Pradesh over the coming days, with the India Meteorological Department forecasting widespread rainfall, thunderstorms and isolated heavy showers across several districts until early next week.
The IMD's Meteorological Centre in Shimla, in its weather bulletin issued on Friday, said atmospheric conditions have become favourable for the further advance of the southwest monsoon over the state during the next three to four days. Although only isolated light to moderate rainfall was recorded across Himachal during the past 24 hours, precipitation is expected to increase significantly.
Adding to the changing weather pattern, the hill town of Shimla received fresh rainfall on Friday afternoon, bringing relief from warm conditions and signalling the strengthening of monsoon activity in the region.
According to the IMD, the current weather is being influenced by a persistent western disturbance, upper-air cyclonic circulations over north Punjab and adjoining Pakistan, and a seasonal trough extending from Rajasthan to Odisha. The combined impact of these systems is expected to trigger widespread rain across the hill state.
The department has forecast light to moderate rain, accompanied by isolated thunderstorms and snowfall over higher reaches, through June 30. Rainfall activity is likely to become more widespread during the latter part of the forecast period, with isolated locations expected to experience heavy rainfall.
Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph are likely at isolated places in Chamba, Kangra, Kullu and Mandi districts throughout the week. Similar weather conditions are expected over parts of Shimla, Sirmaur and Solan on selected days.
Meanwhile, the tribal districts of Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti are expected to witness sustained strong winds of 30-40 kmph from June 26 to July 2.
The IMD said temperatures across the state have remained largely unchanged and are expected to stay stable over the next four to five days. During the past 24 hours, Kukumseri recorded the state's lowest minimum temperature at 7.8 degrees Celsius, while Una registered the highest maximum temperature at 37.2 degrees Celsius.
The weather office has advised residents and tourists to remain vigilant and keep track of the latest forecasts, particularly in vulnerable mid and high-hill areas where heavy rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds could disrupt travel and trigger localised hazards.
— ANI
Reader Comments
My family is planning a trip to Manali next week. This is worrying. The IMD warnings should be taken seriously, especially about landslides. Last year my cousin was stuck in Kullu for two days because of road blockages. Hope the administration has better contingency plans this time.
Good to see accurate forecasting from IMD. The western disturbance and cyclonic circulation combination is exactly what we studied in geography class! But seriously, the apple growers in Shimla and Kullu must be nervous - hailstorms can damage the crop. Hope the thunderstorm warnings are just precautionary.
As someone from Kinnaur, I can tell you these wind speeds are no joke. 30-40 kmph might seem mild to city folks but in our narrow valleys it can be dangerous. We need better early warning systems for remote villages. Tourists should avoid trekking during this period - safety first!
Beautiful news for the environment! Monsoon means greenery, waterfalls and clean air. But let's not forget the urban planning failures - Shimla's drainage system can't handle heavy rain. Hope the municipal corporation has cleared the nallahs this time. 🙏
Typical June pattern - but the temperature variation is interesting! Kukumseri at 7.8°C and Una at 37.2°C shows the diversity of Himachal. For those in Una, enjoy the hot weather while it lasts, monsoon will cool things down soon. My only concern: the IMD should issue more localized alerts for each district.
<
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.