India, July 2 -- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy to very heavy rainfall alert for several parts of Himachal Pradesh as the southwest monsoon strengthens across the state. An orange alert has been issued for districts including Mandi, Shimla, Kangra, and Sirmaur, with intense rainfall expected over the next few days.

Authorities have advised residents to remain alert and avoid travelling to landslide-prone and low-lying areas.

The continuous rainfall has already led to a noticeable drop in daytime temperatures across Himachal Pradesh, bringing relief from the recent heat.

However, the weather department has warned that heavy showers could trigger landslides, flash floods, waterlogging, and disruptions to roa...