IMD predicts 'extremely heavy rains' in Himachal, warns of flooding, landslides

The weather office also cautioned about the possibility of flash floods along water bodies in Kangra, Chamba, Shimla, Mandi, Kullu, Sirmaur, Solan and Una districts, and a disruption of water, power and communication facilities in the low and mid hills.

Shimla:The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for seven districts of Himachal Pradesh, warning of extremely heavy rainfall on July 8 and 9. The weather body has predicted that these districts could get 204 mm of rain in one day.

The IMD in a statement said that under the influence of an active western disturbance, intense spells of extremely heavy rainfall are likely at isolated places in Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Una, Hamirpur and Bilaspur districts on July 8 and 9. It has asked the residents to be prepared for flooding and landslides.

A 'red' alert of extremely heavy rains implies the possibility of more than 204 mm of downpour in a day. The weather body has also issued an 'orange' warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall for Shimla, Sirmaur, Solan and Lahaul and Spiti for July 8 and 9. It has predicted a wet spell in the state till July 13.

The IMD also cautioned about the possibility of flash floods along water bodies in Kangra, Chamba, Shimla, Mandi, Kullu, Sirmaur, Solan and Una districts, and a disruption of water, power and communication facilities in the low and mid hills. There could be occasional reduction in visibility due to heavy rainfall and people have been advised to avoid areas that face waterlogging problems.

The river Beas and its tributaries were reported flowing above the danger mark. At least 91 roads are closed for vehicular traffic and 73 water supply schemes and 69 transformers were disrupted due to rains. So far, according to the state emergency operation centre, Himachal Pradesh has suffered a loss of Rs 352 crores during this monsoon season.