Rain and thunderstorms likely to continue in Himachal Pradesh, orange alert issued for five districts

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that rainfall will continue in many parts of Himachal Pradesh over the next several days. The weather department has issued an orange alert for five districts on June 18 due to the possibility of thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and strong winds.

According to the IMD office in Shimla, the districts under the orange alert are Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla. Residents in these areas have been advised to stay alert and take necessary precautions during bad weather conditions.

The weather department has also issued a yellow alert for several districts on June 17, June 18, and June 19. A yellow alert means that people should remain aware of changing weather conditions and follow safety instructions issued by local authorities.

The forecast suggests that rainfall is likely to occur at a few places across the state until June 22. Meteorologists have said that a fresh Western Disturbance is expected to affect northwestern parts of India from June 18, which could bring more rain and unstable weather conditions to Himachal Pradesh.

A Western Disturbance is a weather system that often brings rain, snowfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds to northern parts of India. Such systems play an important role in changing weather patterns, especially in hilly regions like Himachal Pradesh.

Over the past few days, many parts of the state have already experienced rainfall and thunderstorms. The latest forecast indicates that similar conditions may continue for the next several days.

Rainfall recorded across the state

During the last 24 hours, light to moderate rainfall was recorded in many areas of Himachal Pradesh. Several places received significant amounts of rain, helping to bring down temperatures and provide relief from the heat.

Among all locations, Gohar recorded the highest rainfall at 4.6 centimetres. Jot received 4.1 centimetres of rain, while Kufri recorded 3.96 centimetres. Bhattiyat received 3.81 centimetres, and Nagrota Suriyan recorded 3.56 centimetres of rainfall.

Other areas also witnessed notable rainfall. Pachhad received 2.4 centimetres of rain, while Shilaroo recorded 1.88 centimetres. Sundernagar received 1.79 centimetres, Kandaghat recorded 1.64 centimetres, and Shimla city received 1.26 centimetres of rainfall.

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Apart from rain, thunderstorms were reported in several parts of the state. Areas such as Shimla, Jubbarhatti, Kangra, Sundernagar, Jot, Murari Devi, and Kufri experienced thunderstorm activity.

Hailstorms were also reported from different regions. Residents in Shimla city, Kinnaur, Mandi, Chopal, and Rampur witnessed hail, which affected normal daily activities in some places.

Heavy rainfall in certain areas led to waterlogging and difficult travel conditions. People were advised to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall and thunderstorms.

Weather experts have said that mountain regions are often vulnerable during such weather events. Strong winds, lightning, and hail can cause damage to crops, trees, electricity lines, and temporary structures.

Tourists visiting Himachal Pradesh have also been advised to check weather updates before planning outdoor activities. Popular destinations such as Shimla, Manali, Kufri, and Dharamshala may experience sudden changes in weather conditions.

Temperature likely to change

The IMD has also released a forecast regarding temperatures across the state. According to weather experts, maximum temperatures are likely to increase gradually by around 2 to 3 degrees Celsius in many areas during the next two days.

However, after this short rise, temperatures are expected to decrease again. Meteorologists predict that maximum temperatures could fall by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius in many regions during the following two to three days as rainfall activity increases.

Minimum temperatures, which are usually recorded during the night and early morning, are not expected to change significantly over the next four to five days.

On Tuesday, maximum temperatures remained close to normal levels in most parts of Himachal Pradesh.

Una continued to be the hottest location in the state. The district recorded a maximum temperature of 36.4 degrees Celsius. Neri was the second hottest place with a temperature of 35.3 degrees Celsius, while Mandi recorded 35.2 degrees Celsius.

The state capital, Shimla, recorded a pleasant maximum temperature of 25.5 degrees Celsius. Popular tourist destination Manali registered a maximum temperature of 26.4 degrees Celsius.

Kufri remained one of the coolest places in the state, recording a maximum temperature of only 18.9 degrees Celsius.

The weather department has advised residents, farmers, and tourists to remain cautious over the coming days. Strong winds, lightning, and hailstorms can create hazardous situations, especially in hilly and vulnerable areas.

People are encouraged to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid taking shelter under trees during lightning activity, and follow official weather advisories. Farmers have also been advised to take steps to protect crops and livestock from possible weather-related damage.

With a fresh Western Disturbance approaching and rainfall expected to continue until June 22, Himachal Pradesh is likely to witness changing weather conditions throughout the week. Authorities will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates as necessary.

Residents are advised to keep track of weather forecasts and remain prepared for periods of rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds in the coming days.