Himachal gets rain relief till July 17; Monsoon likely to intensify again from July 18
Shashi Bhushan Purohit
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh), July 14, 2026: After several days of relentless rainfall and flood-like conditions, Himachal Pradesh is set to witness a temporary respite as the southwest monsoon weakens across the state, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The IMD has not issued any heavy rainfall warning for any district till July 17. Light to moderate rain is expected at isolated places during this period. However, the weather is likely to change again from July 18, with the monsoon expected to regain strength and bring increased rainfall activity across many parts of the state.
On Monday, clear skies prevailed across most regions, leading to a sharp rise in temperatures. Sunshine after days of continuous rain pushed maximum temperatures above 30°C in districts including Una, Mandi, Bilaspur, Kangra and Hamirpur, while humidity levels also increased in the plains and mid-hill areas.
According to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, maximum temperatures are expected to rise by 2–4 degrees Celsius over the next four to five days, while minimum temperatures are likely to remain largely unchanged. The combination of higher temperatures and humidity is expected to make weather conditions uncomfortable, particularly in low-lying areas.
The weather office has forecast light to moderate rainfall at isolated locations across the plains, mid-hills and higher reaches until July 17, with no heavy rain alert in place. From July 18–19, however, monsoon activity is expected to intensify, bringing widespread rainfall and the possibility of heavy showers at isolated locations. Strong winds are also likely in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti districts.
Despite the improvement in weather, the impact of recent heavy rains continues to disrupt normal life. As of Monday evening, 69 roads remained blocked, while 13 power transformers and 80 drinking water supply schemes were still affected across the state.
Kullu district remains the worst hit, accounting for 38 road closures, with restoration work also underway in Mandi, Sirmaur, Shimla, Kangra, Una and Lahaul-Spiti.
Weather experts have advised residents and tourists to remain vigilant and keep track of IMD advisories, as monsoon activity is likely to strengthen again from July 18 onward.