Shimla: With pre-monsoon showers continuing across Himachal Pradesh, the southwest monsoon is expected to enter the hill state anytime after June 20, according to the meteorological centre in Shimla. Director of the meteorological centre, Shobhit Katiyar, said a western disturbance has been active over the state since June 11, resulting in widespread rainfall. He noted that the monsoon usually reaches Himachal Pradesh around June 20 and covers the entire state by June 25.While Himachal normally receives about 730 mm of rainfall during the monsoon season, this year the state is likely witness below-average precipitation due to the impact of El Niño and other unfavourable global weather parameters. However, higher reaches of Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti districts are likely to receive above normal rainfall.Yellow alert for todayThe weather department has forecast light to moderate rainfall at several places and snowfall in some higher-altitude areas till June 19. A yellow alert has also been issued for Sunday, warning of thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds with speeds ranging between 30 and 50 kmph at isolated locations in Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi and Shimla districts.On Saturday, light to moderate rain was reported across most parts of the state, with isolated heavy rainfall. Kangra recorded the highest rainfall at 27.6 mm, followed by Hamirpur, Solan, Una and Chamba. Keylong remained the coldest place at 6.3°C, while Paonta Sahib recorded the highest temperature at 34°C. MSID:: 131702407 413 |
