Western Disturbance Brings Heavy Rains and Thunderstorms to Shimla and Surrounding Districts in Himachal Pradesh

Heavy rains lashed Himachal's capital Shimla since 5 pm, inundating roads in the city. Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a fresh bulletin, issuing an orange alert of thunderstorm and squall with heavy rain in Mandi, Kullu, Sirmaur and Shimla districts. Locals and tourists have been advised to remain alert in these districts till 9 pm. Those travelling, especially in hilly areas, have been asked to exercise caution in view of landslides, strong winds and sudden weather changes. According to the Meteorological Department (IMD), the impact of the Western Disturbance will be felt throughout the state during the next 48 hours. All other districts except Kinnaur and Lahaul Spiti have been issued a yellow alert of rain, thunderstorm and lightning. Light snowfall can also be seen in the higher peaks of Kinnaur and Lahaul Spiti during this period. Rainfall is forecast in most parts of the state till June 22. The Western Disturbance is expected to be slightly weaker during the last 24 hours, with a maximum of 31.2 mm in the state.