Dharamshala/Shimla, July 21 -- With the heavy rainfall likely on July 21, the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Shimla, has sounded a red alert in Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi and Sirmaur districts, while an orange alert has been issued for Una, Hamirpur and Shimla districts.

An orange alert of heavy rainfall has also been sounded for July 22, in Una, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, and Sirmaur districts, while a yellow alert has been issued for several other districts. A similar yellow alert will continue for four districts on July 23. The weather office has predicted heavy showers to continue in parts of the state till July 25.

Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds (30-40 kmph) are likely at isolated places over low hills and mid hil...