IMD predicts heavy rain alert for six districts of Himachal over next 12 hours
Aug 19, 2024
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 19 : The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Shimla has issued a heavy rain alert for six districts in Himachal Pradesh.
The alert predicts medium-intensity rainfall over the next 12 hours, primarily affecting the districts of Bilaspur, Chamba, Hamirpur, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi.
Earlier, a cloudburst followed by severe flooding and rainfall struck the Damrali Nallah area in the Taklech sub-tehsil of the Rampur sub-division of Himachal Pradesh late at night on August 16, causing significant disruption in the area.
A cloudburst and subsequent flood caused the breakage of approximately 30 metres of road and damaged nearby mobile towers. No loss of life or significant property damage was reported.
The incident resulted in the breakage of nearly 30 metres of road in the area, along with sustainable damages to nearby mobile towers. Fortunately, no loss of life or other property was reported by the officials.
Upon receiving the information, Shimla Sub-Divisional Magistrate Nishant Tomar and Deputy Superintendent of Police Naresh Sharma rushed to the spot to assess the situation.
In another incident, the road near Nigulsari Sliding Point on Shimla-Kinnaur Highway (NH-5) in Khas completely caved in, due to which traffic activities were halted in that area.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert on August 18 for multiple states across India, including West Bengal, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Tripura.
Apart from these states, heavy to very heavy rainfall is anticipated in Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and several parts of southern India. The Northwestern states, particularly Uttar Pradesh, are also on alert, with forecasts predicting sustained heavy rainfall over the next 5 to 7 days.
Speaking on the forecast, IMD scientist Dr Naresh Kumar said, "We have issued an orange alert for August 18-19 for West Bengal, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Tripura. Very heavy rainfall has been predicted here. Heavy to very heavy rainfall activity is expected in Bihar, Chhattisgarh and the South Peninsular area. In the Northwestern states like Uttar Pradesh, in the upcoming 5-7 days heavy rainfall is predicted. In Delhi NCR light rainfall is expected."
Meanwhile, rain lashed several parts of Delhi on Sunday afternoon, bringing respite from humid weather conditions.
