Himachal weather update: Monsoon expected to pick pace from tomorrow, yellow alert issued for heavy rain
Himachal Pradesh is set to experience increased monsoon activity from Monday (July 29, 2024) as the Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for heavy rain in most areas of the state from July 29 to August 2.
The alert suggests a significant rise in rainfall activity, prompting residents to stay vigilant and prepared. On Saturday, the capital city Shimla experienced light rain while heavy downpour was recorded in Dhaula Kuan, Nahan and parts of Hamirpur and Dharamshala.
Specifically, Dhaula Kuan saw 69 mm of rain, Nahan 36 mm, Dharamshala 20 mm and both Shimla and Kangra recorded 1 mm each. This variability highlights the uneven distribution of monsoon activity across the state.
Friday night also brought substantial rainfall to several regions. Dhaula Kuan recorded 54 mm, Palampur 32 mm, Paonta Sahib 31 mm, Sundernagar 26 mm, Mandi 8 mm and Dharamshala 7 mm. Despite the heavy rains in these areas, the monsoon remains inactive in other parts of Himachal Pradesh, leading to sporadic and localised showers.
Minimum temperatures on Friday night reflected the cool and varied climate of the region. Shimla recorded a low of 18.6°C, Kalpa 17.2°C, Dharamshala 20.9°C, Una 25.6°C, Nahan 25.4°C, Keylong 16.5°C, Solan 23.0°C, Manali 20.7°C, Kangra 24°C, Mandi 25.1°C, Bilaspur 26.1°C, Hamirpur 26.5°C and Chamba 24.7°C.
The forecast predicts that some areas may see rain on Sunday, with a more widespread rainfall expected from July 29. This forecast has led to the issuance of a yellow alert, advising residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the weather conditions may deteriorate.
In terms of maximum temperatures, Una topped the chart with 36.6°C, followed closely by Mandi at 36.5°C. Other notable temperatures include Bilaspur at 34.9°C, Chamba at 34.7°C, Hamirpur at 33.8°C, Solan at 30°C, Dharamshala and Manali both at 29°C and Shimla at a cooler 24.6°C.
As Himachal Pradesh prepares for the upcoming heavy rains, residents have been advised to stay tuned for further updates and heed any warnings issued by local authorities.