Monsoon has already reached most parts of Haryana, and conditions are now favourable for it to advance into the remaining areas. The southwest monsoon has covered the entire state barring a small pocket in the west, and the last three days have brought above normal rainfall to the region. Meanwhile, in Himachal Pradesh, the monsoon has covered the whole state ahead of its usual pace, and an orange alert is now in force for Mandi and Sirmaur districts.
What the forecast looks like for Haryana
According to the India Meteorological Department, the northern limit of the monsoon currently runs through Jamnagar, Udaipur, Ajmer, Jhunjhunu, Hisar and Bathinda. As a result, Haryana and Chandigarh are likely to see widespread rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds until July 8. On July 9, isolated rain is expected in these areas, for which the department has issued a yellow alert.
Precautions advised for residents
Authorities have flagged the possibility of waterlogging in low lying areas, along with disruptions to water, power, communication and related services. People have been asked to follow traffic advisories and stay away from sensitive spots and locations that are prone to waterlogging. There is a clear warning against swimming in small rivers or drains during heavy rain, and residents have been told to keep a safe distance from river currents and other water bodies.
Himachal sees the monsoon spread rapidly after a delayed start
The southwest monsoon has spread across the whole of Himachal Pradesh, and heavy to very heavy rain is highly likely in parts of the state over the next four to five days. Notably, the monsoon covered the entire state by July 1, even though it typically arrives in Himachal by June 25, meaning this year's onset was late but its spread across the state was swift. On July 5, widespread rain is expected in the lower hill and plain areas and adjoining mid elevation zones, with heavy to very heavy rain forecast at some places. Light to moderate rain is expected in the higher hill areas and adjoining mid elevation zones. The weather department has issued an orange alert for Mandi and Sirmaur districts, while a yellow alert is in place for Bilaspur, Kangra, Kullu and Shimla, where heavy rain is expected at some spots.
Sirmaur administration on high alert
With rain continuing steadily in Sirmaur district, the local administration is fully on alert. The weather department has warned of heavy rain for the next two days as well. Deputy Commissioner Priyanka Verma has appealed to people to stay away from rivers and drains and avoid unnecessary travel. The water level in rivers and drains is rising continuously because of the persistent rain, and Deputy Commissioner Priyanka Verma has directed all concerned departments to remain vigilant. People have specifically been told to stay alert before water is released from the Giri Jatton Dam, so that any untoward incident can be avoided. Residents have also been advised against heading towards Churdhar during the rains, since pilgrims there often lose their way during heavy downpours.
Solan's farmers welcome the rain but worry about past damage
In Solan district, the arrival of the monsoon has brought relief to farmers and horticulturists. Amardeep Paja, a resident of Ward No. 5, said the rain over the last two days would prove beneficial for farming. However, he also raised concerns about the damage that heavy rain can cause. He pointed out that in previous years, landslides and falling debris in areas like Shamati and Chakki Mor had blocked roads and damaged several houses. According to Amardeep Paja, both the administration and residents need to stay alert so that such situations are not repeated.
