The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for six Himachal Pradesh districts, warning of heavy rains and the possibility of flash floods in Sirmaur. According to the MeT, heavy rain is expected in these districts on Friday (September 15). The regions under the alert include Mandi, Bilaspur, Chamba, Kangra, Solan, and Sirmaur, where heavy rains are predicted at isolated locations throughout the day, the Shimla dept of IMD said in a notification.
A new Western Disturbance is anticipated to impact northwest India starting from the night of September 15, as per the meteorological update.
The weather department has forecast a wet spell in the area until September 21, with expectations of light to moderate rainfall in the lower and middle hills of Himachal Pradesh, and moderate rainfall or snowfall in the higher elevations.
Farmers have been advised to reschedule the application of insecticides to prevent damage to standing crops, fruit plants, and young plants.
As of September 15, during the ongoing monsoon season, Himachal Pradesh has recorded 840.6 mm of rainfall since June 1, surpassing the normal rainfall of 689.6 mm by 22 percent, according to data from the MeT.
The state has been grappling with the aftermath of heavy rains in July and August, resulting in losses estimated at Rs 8,680 crore, according to the state emergency operation centre.
Since the onset of the monsoon in Himachal Pradesh on June 24, rain-related incidents have claimed the lives of approximately 272 individuals. The situation remains challenging, with weather warnings and alerts being closely monitored to ensure the safety of residents.
'Orange' Alert For Maharashtra & Gujarat:
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather alerts for several regions in Maharashtra and Gujarat, forecasting heavy rainfall in the coming days.
In Maharashtra, the IMD has issued an 'Orange' alert for Thane, Palghar, Raigad, and Dhule on both September 16 and 17. Additionally, a 'Yellow' alert has been issued for Mumbai on the same dates, signifying the possibility of moderate to heavy rain in these areas.
Delhi, too, is expected to be influenced by the weather patterns. According to Dr Soma Sen Roy, an IMD Scientist, "Tomorrow, low pressure may move towards the West, so West Madhya Pradesh and the Northern part of Maharashtra may receive very heavy rainfall." She further added that there isn't much chance of rain in North-East India. However, as the low-pressure system continues to move westward, Gujarat may also experience rainfall, as reported by ANI.