Southwest Monsoon covers Himachal Pradesh; IMD issues heavy rainfall warning as tourists enjoy showers in Shimla
Shimla, July 1
The Southwest Monsoon covered the entire state of Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday, bringing widespread showers to Shimla, as the India Meteorological Department issued heavy rainfall warning for the next seven days and advised residents and tourists to remain alert amid the possibility of landslides, flash floods, waterlogging and traffic disruptions.
The monsoon showers drew tourists to the hill station despite dense fog reducing visibility at several locations. Visitors were seen enjoying the cool weather and rain, although some said the conditions had affected their travel plans.
Speaking with ANI, Imran, a tourist from Chandigarh, said, "It's monsoon here and we are enjoying it a lot. We were supposed to travel further but couldn't because of the rain and dense fog. Still, the views are amazing. The weather is wonderful and even the children are enjoying themselves. Although the rain has affected our plans, the experience has been memorable."
Local residents, meanwhile, expressed hope that this year's monsoon would bring timely rainfall without causing the kind of damage witnessed in previous years. They said normal rainfall would benefit agriculture while emphasising the need to avoid loss of life and property.
"It is good that the monsoon has arrived. We hope it remains timely and does not cause destruction like last year. If the rains continue normally, it will benefit everyone, especially poor people and farmers. We pray there is no loss of life or property this season," local resident Baburam said.
Another resident, Ratan Lal Gautam, said good rainfall was essential for agriculture but cautioned against activities that obstruct natural water channels.
"We welcome the monsoon every year because it brings good rainfall for our crops and benefits farmers. We pray that the rains continue normally. However, excessive rainfall can become disastrous. People should avoid constructing houses close to rivers and natural streams because blocking water channels ultimately causes damage. We hope this year's monsoon remains safe for everyone." He told ANI.
According to the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, active monsoon conditions are expected to persist across Himachal Pradesh from July 1 to July 7 due to a seasonal trough extending from Punjab to the Bay of Bengal, supported by a fresh Western Disturbance and cyclonic circulation over Punjab.
The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places in Kangra, Mandi, Shimla and Sirmaur districts on July 2, 3, 5 and 6. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph are also likely across many parts of the state, while high-altitude districts, including Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti, may experience strong winds.
The weather department has also forecast a drop of 3°C to 7°C in maximum temperatures and 2°C to 4°C in minimum temperatures over the next two days. Authorities have advised people to avoid unnecessary travel to landslide-prone areas, stay away from rivers and seasonal streams, and follow traffic advisories issued by the local administration as active monsoon conditions continue across the state.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The weather is perfect for chai and pakoras! 🤤 But honestly, the authorities should enforce restrictions near rivers and streams. People building houses in vulnerable areas is a disaster waiting to happen. I hope the rains are gentle this year.
I remember visiting Shimla during monsoon last year—the fog was magical, but the road closures were a nightmare. The IMD’s warning is crucial. Tourists, please avoid driving at night and stay updated on advisories. Nature is beautiful but unforgiving.
The irony—tourists enjoying the rain while farmers pray for normal showers. Both perspectives are valid, but we can’t ignore the risks of waterlogging and landslides. Let’s hope the rain stays beneficial and not destructive, as the locals said. 🙏
I’m happy for the tourists, but this is a serious situation. The drop in temperature and heavy rain can cause issues for elderly residents and those with health conditions. Authorities should ensure emergency services are ready. Stay safe, everyone!
Good to see the monsoon coverage, but the real issue is infrastructure. Himachal needs better drainage and landslide protection. The government should use these warnings to implement long-term solutions, not just advisories. Don’t let past mistakes repeat.
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