Himachal Prepares for Monsoon Farewell Amid Lingering Rain and Damage
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has signaled that the southwest monsoon is likely to begin its retreat from Himachal Pradesh within the next few days, with the withdrawal expected between September 21 and 25.
Rainfall is set to ease gradually after Thursday. While light to moderate showers are expected today, heavier downpours and thunderstorms may still hit Bilaspur, Kangra, Mandi, and Sirmaur. From September 19 onward, the weather is forecast to improve, with only scattered light rain in a few areas. Most regions are expected to dry out after September 21, with Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti likely to remain rain-free starting September 20.
In the past 24 hours, Bilaspur district saw the most rainfall, with Naina Devi receiving 14 cm, followed by Bilaspur Sadar (12 cm), Kahu (9 cm), and Nahan (8 cm). Thunderstorms were also reported in Shimla, Sundernagar, Kangra, Palampur, and Murari Devi.
This year’s monsoon has left a deep impact on Himachal Pradesh. Since June 20, rain-related incidents have claimed 419 lives and injured 479 people. The estimated damage to public and private property has crossed ₹4,595 crore.
As of Thursday morning, heavy rains continued to disrupt daily life. A total of 564 roads—including two national highways—remain blocked. Power outages persist, with 525 transformers out of service, and 281 water supply schemes affected. Mandi district has reported the highest number of road closures (203), followed by Kullu (155) and Shimla (50).
Authorities are urging residents to stay cautious, especially in landslide-prone and flood-affected areas, and to avoid unnecessary travel until conditions stabilize.
