IMD Warns of Heavy Rain in Himachal Pradesh from July 18, Yellow Alert Issued for Several Areas

Monsoon activity expected to intensify across the state till July 23, with the possibility of very heavy rainfall, landslides and flash floods.

Shimla: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a significant increase in monsoon rainfall across Himachal Pradesh beginning July 18, prompting the issuance of a yellow alert for parts of the state. Weather officials have warned that isolated areas could witness heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next several days.

According to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, rainfall activity is expected to strengthen gradually throughout the week. While July 17 is likely to experience scattered showers in several districts, rainfall coverage is expected to expand from July 18 onward, with more regions receiving moderate to heavy showers.

The IMD has forecast widespread rainfall across most parts of Himachal Pradesh between July 19 and July 22, with locations likely to receive very heavy rain. Similar weather conditions are expected to continue on July 23, with heavy rainfall remaining a possibility in vulnerable areas.

The latest forecast follows relatively mild weather over the past 24 hours, during which only a few places recorded light rainfall. Nagrota Suriyan received the highest rainfall at 28.8 mm, followed by Kangra with 10.2 mm. Meanwhile, daytime temperatures remained above normal in many districts. Una recorded the state’s highest maximum temperature at 38°C, while Keylong registered the lowest minimum temperature at 12.2°C.

Meteorologists said the changing weather pattern is being driven by multiple active systems, including an active monsoon trough stretching across northern India and a western disturbance influencing the Jammu region. Another western disturbance is expected to enter northwest India around July 19, which could further intensify rainfall across Himachal Pradesh.

The IMD has urged residents, tourists and travellers to remain cautious, especially in hilly and landslide-prone areas. Heavy rainfall may lead to flash floods, landslides, rockfalls and temporary road blockages, affecting transport and normal life in several districts. People have been advised to follow official weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall.