Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 6 (ANI): Heavy rainfall lashed Shimla and several parts of Himachal Pradesh on Thursday, disrupting normal life in the hill town as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast continued wet weather with heavy rain at isolated places across the state over the next several days.
Residents in Shimla said the persistent showers affected daily activities, making commuting difficult and slowing business operations. Rainfall intensified after intermittent spells during the day, leaving roads slippery and reducing visibility.
Speaking to ANI, local resident Ram Pal Sharma said the prolonged rain had made it difficult for people to carry out their daily work.
“It looked cloudy since morning, and then the rain started suddenly. It rained heavily for nearly one-and-a-half hours. In such heavy rain, it becomes difficult to move around or do any work. Though the rainfall is not as severe as what we witnessed two or three years ago, continuous showers still affect business and daily life,” Sharma said.
Sharma, who said he has been working in Shimla for the past 57 years, added that rainfall patterns have changed over time.
“I have been here for 57 years. In recent years, it feels like rainfall has reduced compared to the past. We hope the weather improves soon so normal business can resume. Continuous rain delays opening shops and affects everyday activities,” he said.
He also expressed concern over the risks posed by landslides during the monsoon, recalling that rockfalls on roads have caused accidents and posed dangers to commuters.
According to the IMD’s Meteorological Centre in Shimla, light to moderate rain occurred at many places across Himachal Pradesh during the past 24 hours, with heavy rainfall reported at isolated locations. The department has forecast light to moderate rain at most places across the state, with heavy rain likely at isolated places from August 6 to August 12.
For Thursday, the IMD has warned of heavy rain at isolated places in Bilaspur, Kangra, Solan and Sirmaur districts, while moderate to heavy rain is likely at isolated places in Shimla district.
The weather office has cautioned that heavy rainfall may trigger localised landslides, mudslides, flash floods, waterlogging, rising water levels in rivers and streams, and traffic disruptions due to slippery roads and poor visibility. People have been advised to avoid vulnerable areas, stay away from rivers and streams, and follow weather advisories issued by the authorities. (ANI)
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