Himachal weather: Orange alert issued across state; landslides disrupt life
An orange alert has been issued for heavy rain across several parts of Himachal Pradesh, with severe downpour recorded on Thursday (August 8, 2024) night. The heavy rainfall has already caused widespread disruption, leading to landslides, road closures and power outages in various regions.
According to data from the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, Jogindernagar recorded the highest rainfall at 160 mm, followed by Dharamshala with 112.4 mm and Katola with 112.3 mm. Other areas like Bharari, Kandaghat, Palampur and Shimla also received significant rainfall, contributing to the already challenging weather conditions.
The Meteorological Centre has issued an orange alert for heavy rain on August 9 and 10, warning residents to brace for further disruptions. A yellow alert has been issued from the August 11 to 15, indicating continued heavy rainfall but with a slightly reduced intensity.
Landslides and infrastructure damage
The heavy rains have triggered landslides in several parts of the state, leading to the closure of more than 100 roads. In Shimla, a landslide occurred near the Forest Department Headquarters, causing a cedar tree to fall. Another tree fell near the Panthaghati Petrol Pump, breaking electricity wires and disrupting the power supply.
In Sainj Valley, a tree fell on a 33 KV power line between Paaglanala and Trehra, cutting off electricity to 15 gram panchayats. The incident also blocked the Sainj-Larji road, delaying the transportation of vegetables and fruits to local markets.
Chandigarh-Manali NH closed for 13 hours
The Chandigarh-Manali National Highway faced a major disruption, remaining closed for about 13 hours from Thursday night to Friday morning. The highway was blocked near Khotinala between Pandoh and Aut when a large trailer carrying heavy machinery went out of control and fell on the road.
Additionally, heavy debris falling from a hill near Nau Mile between Mandi and Pandoh completely closed the highway for traffic. After significant efforts, one-way traffic was restored on Friday morning.
Power outages and disrupted services
The heavy rain has also affected essential services, with 149 electricity transformers and 47 water supply schemes currently disrupted across the state. Residents are facing prolonged power cuts and water shortages, adding to the challenges posed by the ongoing weather conditions.
Despite the heavy rains, temperatures in various parts of Himachal Pradesh remain moderate. Shimla recorded a minimum temperature of 16.2°C, while Sundernagar reported 22.1°C. Other notable readings include Dharamshala at 19.5°C, Manali at 19.6°C, and Kufri at 15.8°C.
