Shimla, March 16: The weather in Himachal Pradesh has taken a severe turn, with widespread rainfall, snowfall, and hailstorms reported in multiple districts over the past 24 hours. Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Kullu, and the higher reaches of Shimla have witnessed fresh snowfall, while the state capital Shimla experienced heavy rain accompanied by hailstorm last night, significantly dropping the temperature.
Severe Weather Impact Across Himachal Pradesh
Lower and mid-altitude regions of the state also experienced intense rainfall, leading to a noticeable decline in temperature and an increase in cold conditions. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Himachal Pradesh has seen a sharp contrast in minimum and maximum temperatures.
- Coldest Place: Lahaul-Spiti’s headquarters, Keylong, recorded -2.0°C, the lowest temperature in the state.
- Warmest Place: Sirmaur’s Dhualakua recorded 27.4°C, the highest in the state.
Heavy Rainfall and Snowfall Data
Rainfall (Past 24 Hours):
- Manali: 65.0 mm (Highest Rainfall)
- Bhuntar: 45.6 mm
- Seobagh: 42.0 mm
- Gohar: 36.0 mm
- Kothi: 34.0 mm
Snowfall (Past 24 Hours):
- Kothi (Kullu): 27.5 cm (Highest snowfall)
- Kukumsari (Lahaul-Spiti): 4.8 cm
- Khadarala (Shimla): 5.0 cm
- Keylong (Lahaul-Spiti) & Kalpa (Kinnaur): 4.0 cm
- Sangla (Kinnaur): 3.4 cm
The fresh snowfall has caused slippery roads and travel disruptions in several locations, making commuting difficult for residents and tourists alike.
Travel Disruptions and Avalanche Alert in Lahaul-Spiti and Kullu
- Jalori Jot Road Blocked: The National Highway-305 (Ani-Kullu route) is completely blocked due to heavy snowfall at Jalori Jot in Kullu district.
- Atal Tunnel Open But Travel Risky: While Atal Tunnel Rohtang remains operational, travel remains hazardous due to slippery roads.
- Avalanche Warning Issued: Lahaul-Spiti, Kullu, Chamba, and Kinnaur districts have been placed on high alert for potential avalanches, with residents advised to avoid unnecessary travel.
- Road and Power Disruptions:
- 104 roads blocked due to heavy snowfall.
- 32 power transformers shut down, leading to electricity supply issues in remote areas.
Cold Wave Grips Kinnaur and Other High-Altitude Regions
In Kinnaur and other upper regions, temperatures have dropped sharply, affecting daily life. The cold wave has forced people indoors, with markets and public places witnessing reduced activity.
Fog and Low Visibility in Mandi District
Mandi district experienced dense fog in the morning, significantly reducing visibility to 800 meters, causing travel delays.
Weather Forecast: More Rain and Snow Expected
According to IMD Himachal Pradesh, fluctuating weather patterns are expected to continue for the next few days:
- March 16: Yellow alert issued for thunderstorms, rain, and hailstorms in parts of the state.
- March 17, 19, 20, and 21: Light to moderate rainfall and snowfall expected in various locations.
- March 18 & 22: Dry weather conditions predicted with clear skies.
- No Weather Warnings (March 17-22): No significant alerts for severe weather conditions beyond March 16.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
