Fresh Snowfall in Himachal Pradesh, Yellow Alert Issued for the Next Four Days

Shimla, March 11 – Himachal Pradesh is experiencing intermittent snowfall in high-altitude areas, with fresh snow recorded in Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and Pangi. The latest snowfall has led to a significant drop in temperature, intensifying the winter chill across the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Shimla has issued a Yellow Alert for the next four days, warning of snowfall, rain, and thunderstorms in several districts.

Fresh Snowfall and Rain Across Himachal

According to the IMD Shimla, Gondla received 16 cm of snowfall last night, while Keylong recorded 15 cm and Kukumseri 4 cm. Apart from these areas, light rainfall was reported in several other districts. The weather shift has significantly lowered temperatures, causing cold conditions to intensify across the state.

Major hill stations like Shimla and Manali remained under dense cloud cover today, while the plains of Himachal Pradesh also witnessed overcast conditions. The weather forecast indicates further deterioration, with snowfall continuing in higher elevations and rain expected in lower regions.

Yellow Alert Issued Until March 17

The Meteorological Department has warned of rough weather conditions until March 17, with chances of heavy snowfall in the mountains and rain in the plains. The IMD has specifically issued a Yellow Alert for March 12, 13, 14, and 15, predicting:

• Thunderstorms and lightning in various parts of the state
• Heavy snowfall in Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and upper reaches of Chamba, Kullu, and Kinnaur
• Moderate rainfall across mid and lower-altitude districts

Western Disturbance Impacting Weather Conditions

IMD Shimla Director Kuldeep Srivastava has stated that a strong Western Disturbance is influencing Himachal’s weather, leading to increased chances of snowfall, rainfall, and thunderstorms. This weather system will bring significant changes, particularly from March 12 to March 15, when strong winds and lightning activity are expected in multiple regions.

Temperature Drop Across Himachal Pradesh

Despite the ongoing weather disturbances, the average minimum temperature in the state has risen by 0.4°C over the past 24 hours. However, Lahaul-Spiti continues to experience extreme cold, with Tabo recording the lowest temperature at -3°C, followed by:

• Kukumseri at -2.8°C
• Keylong at -0.6°C
• Kalpa (Kinnaur) at 2.6°C
• Manali at 6.9°C
• Shimla at 11.6°C
• Sundernagar at 11.5°C
• Bhuntar at 10.5°C
• Dharamshala at 5.3°C
• Una at 9.2°C
• Nahan at 13.1°C
• Palampur at 11.5°C
• Solan at 9°C
• Dalhousie at 8.6°C
• Bharmour at 6.3°C
• Syobagh at 9°C

Impact on Travel and Daily Life

The ongoing snowfall and Yellow Alert warning are expected to affect daily activities, transportation, and tourism in Himachal Pradesh. Authorities have advised travelers, tourists, and residents to stay cautious, especially in landslide-prone and avalanche-prone areas.

• Road travel to high-altitude areas, including Rohtang Pass and Baralacha La, could be affected due to snow accumulation.
• Tourists visiting Manali, Kufri, and Solang Valley should check weather advisories before planning their trips.
• Farmers have been advised to take precautions as unseasonal rain and snow may impact agricultural activities.

What to Expect in the Coming Days?

With heavy snowfall expected in the higher altitudes and thunderstorms in lower regions, residents must prepare for potential disruptions. The Western Disturbance will remain active for the next few days, with the intensity of snowfall and rain peaking on March 13 and 14. After March 17, the weather is expected to stabilize, but cold conditions will persist across Himachal Pradesh.