Shimla, June 17 (UNI) Heavy pre-monsoon showers drenched most parts of Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday, offering major relief from a prolonged heatwave and drought-like conditions.
After weeks of high temperatures, the spell of rainfall cooled the atmosphere and broke the month-long dry streak.
In Shimla city, heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds (30–40 kmph) was recorded early in the morning and lasted nearly three hours.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for the state, warning of likely thunderstorms, gusty winds, and low visibility in Shimla and adjoining districts.
The maximum rainfall was recorded at Raipur Maidan (130.2 mm), followed by Hamirpur 90mm, Baldwara (62 mm), RL BBMB (58 mm), Kasauli and Una (52 mm each), and Shimla (42.7 mm). Other areas like Bilaspur, Aghar, and Shillaroo also received substantial rain. Roads turned slippery and waterlogged, with several drains overflowing, blocking traffic at multiple locations.
The intense weather disrupted power and communication lines, and air traffic to Shimla and Manali was suspended. Many localities, especially in hilly terrains, reported damage to temporary structures and fallen trees.
In Lahaul-Spiti, a flash flood at Jungle Camp near Tindi (Udaipur sub-division) blocked the SKTT Road, and two tourists died while 42 people sustained injuries across Mandi and Lahaul-Spiti districts due to rockfalls and slips.
District police have advised against unnecessary travel in high-altitude areas such as Baralacha Top and Shinkula Top, where continuous rain and snowfall have reduced visibility.
Minimum temperatures saw no significant change and were recorded near or slightly above normal at most stations. The lowest minimum temperature was 8.9°C in Kukumseri, while the highest maximum temperature was 38.2°C in Hamirpur. The IMD also reported gusty winds up to 39 kmph in Seobagh.
As per the latest forecast, moderate rain with gusty winds and thunderstorms is likely to continue over the next few days in isolated parts of the state. IMD advises residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay indoors during inclement weather, and remain alert to further advisories.
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