IMD issues heavy‑rain alert for 15 states as Himachal and J&K face intense monsoon

The India Meteorological Department released a heavy‑rain advisory covering fifteen states, citing an active monsoon trough moving north‑westward. The agency highlighted Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir as the zones likely to receive the highest precipitation, urging local authorities to prepare for landslides and flash floods. State disaster‑management teams have been instructed to monitor river levels, activate early‑warning systems and pre‑position relief supplies. Residents in vulnerable hill districts have been asked to stay alert, avoid low‑lying areas and follow instructions from officials. The alert remains in force until further notice, with the IMD pledging to issue updates as the system evolves.