The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday said the southwest monsoon remained active over parts of Himachal Pradesh in the past 24 hours, producing heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas, but that the system is expected to weaken significantly across the state after 23 August.
Recent rainfall and districts affected
IMD Himachal Pradesh head Shobhit Katiyar reported that several parts of the state recorded moderate to heavy rainfall over the last day. The plains of Bilaspur and Hamirpur received around 12–13 cm of rain. Heavy precipitation was also observed in parts of Chamba, Kangra, Solan and Mandi, while the remaining districts experienced moderate showers.
"Over the next three days, the monsoon will remain active in some parts of the state. However, after August 23, it will weaken considerably across Himachal Pradesh," Katiyar said.
The IMD has issued an orange alert for Kangra and Una for Wednesday on account of the possibility of heavy rain in the lower and middle hills. Forecasters said rainfall was expected to ease from Thursday, though pockets of Kullu, Mandi, Kangra, Una and Bilaspur might still receive moderate to heavy showers.
Outlook through late August
According to the IMD, rainfall activity is likely to become confined to smaller areas by 21 August, with moderate rain possible in Una, Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur. Beyond 23 August, the agency said there is no weather warning for the state and the monsoon will remain generally weak, with only isolated light rain expected.
The IMD added that there was no likelihood of severe weather for the following around 45 days, signalling a lull in heavy-monsoon episodes for the region.
Rainfall deficit and seasonal context
IMD data show Himachal Pradesh recorded a rainfall deficit of about 7 per cent for the period 1 June to 18 August. The state normally receives roughly 535 mm during this interval but has recorded nearly 500 mm so far.
| Period | Normal (mm) | Actual (mm) | Deficit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 June–18 Aug | 535 | ~500 | 7% |
| June (month) | — | — | ~35% deficit |
| 1–18 Aug | — | — | ~8% deficit |
Katiyar noted that June experienced a marked shortfall in rainfall — around 35 per cent below normal — while July recorded above-normal precipitation. The IMD had earlier indicated that the season's overall rainfall for most parts of Himachal Pradesh was likely to remain around 9 per cent or below normal.
Impacts and precautions
With heavy rain reported in parts of the state this week, local authorities and residents in vulnerable areas are advised to remain alert for waterlogging, landslides and localized flooding during spells of heavy precipitation. The IMD alert levels are guidance: an orange alert denotes a potential for significant disruption and requires preparedness, while the forecast of no warnings after 23 August suggests reduced risk of widespread severe weather.
- Residents in hill and foothill areas should avoid unnecessary travel during active spells and follow instructions from district administrations.
- Those in landslide-prone zones must move to safer locations if local authorities advise evacuation.
- Farmers should protect standing crops and livestock; secure loose material and check drainage around fields and settlements.
IMD forecasters emphasised that while statewide severe weather is not expected for the coming 45 days, isolated showers and localised heavy rain cannot be ruled out in the short term. Citizens should monitor updates from the IMD and district disaster management authorities for timely advisories and warnings.
(Compiled from IMD briefing reported by ANI)
