Shimla, June 4: The Meteorological Centre, Shimla, has issued an Orange Alert for heavy rainfall in several districts of Himachal Pradesh today, warning of hailstorms, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds with speeds ranging between 40 and 50 kmph at isolated places. According to the weather department, many areas in the mid and higher hill regions are expected to receive light to moderate rainfall, while several locations in the lower and plain areas may also witness light showers. The department has indicated that the current wet spell is likely to continue across the state until June 9.
The Orange Alert has been issued for Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur districts, where heavy rainfall is expected during the day. Chamba district has been placed under a Yellow Alert, with the possibility of moderate rainfall and adverse weather conditions. The weather department has urged local authorities and residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant.
For the coming days, the department has issued a Yellow Alert for June 5 in Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Solan, and Sirmaur districts. On June 6, the alert will remain in effect for Chamba, Kangra, and Kullu districts, where rainfall activity is expected to continue.
Despite the forecast of rain, several parts of Himachal Pradesh recorded high temperatures on Wednesday. Neri remained the hottest location in the state with a maximum temperature of 37.4 degrees Celsius, while Una recorded 35.6 degrees Celsius. Other major towns also experienced warm weather, with temperatures reaching 34.7°C in Kangra, 34.1°C in Sundernagar and Nahan, 33.9°C in Bhuntar, and 32.8°C in Mandi. Shimla recorded a maximum temperature of 26°C, while tourist destinations such as Manali and Kufri registered 24.6°C and 19.7°C respectively.
The Meteorological Department has advised residents and tourists to exercise caution, particularly in hill areas prone to landslides and flash floods. People have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall and thunderstorms and to follow weather advisories issued by local authorities. The department has also cautioned against taking shelter under trees during lightning activity and has asked farmers and orchardists to take necessary precautions to protect crops from hailstorms and strong winds.
