Monsoon Arrives Early in Himachal; Orange Alert Issued for Several Districts

Shimla, June 20:
The southwest monsoon has arrived in Himachal Pradesh five days ahead of schedule, making its presence felt in Shimla city and parts of Kinnaur, Sirmaur, and Mandi districts on Friday.

According to the Meteorological Department, the monsoon is expected to advance into the remaining districts of the state over the next two to three days. The early arrival has already triggered rainfall in several regions, and reports of landslides in hilly areas have caused inconvenience to residents and travelers alike.

Shobhit Katiyar, a scientist at the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, confirmed that the monsoon is now active in Himachal and that several locations have recorded significant rainfall. An orange alert has been issued for June 22 and 23 in the districts of Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, and Sirmaur, indicating the likelihood of heavy rainfall. A yellow alert has also been declared for Shimla, Solan, and Mandi districts.

The Met department has forecast continued heavy rainfall across the state for the coming week. Residents are advised to remain vigilant, especially in areas prone to landslides and near riverbanks and streams. Authorities have urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel in vulnerable regions during this period.