Himachal weather: Cold wave starts gripping state as higher reaches of Kinnaur get snow
- Sukhu Govt’s Shocking Decision: Corrupt Officer with SC-Rejected Bail Appointed for Public Dealing* - September 19, 2024
- Himachal to now merge high schools with 15 students, sets lower limit for senior secondary ones too - September 19, 2024
- Relief for Hamirpur residents as suspected monkeypox case tests negative - September 19, 2024
SHIMLA: Snowfall has been experienced in the high-altitude areas of Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh, leading to the onset of the cold wave in the region and also posing challenges for the locals.
The snowfall was experienced a day ago as well and a fresh spell was reported in Kalpa, Nichar and Pooh blocks on Friday (September 13, 2024) morning. Prominent regions such as Nakdam, Nithal, Thach, Khanadumti, Ranikanda, Kinnaur Kailash, Riopurgil in Nako, Sangla Kanda and the Shoshala Peak near Raksham experienced heavy snow, while the high peaks of Bhavavali near the Indo-Tibet border were also blanketed in white.
In contrast, lower areas of Kinnaur continue to face steady rainfall, further reviving the cold wave and impacting daily life. The state capital Shimla along with other parts of Himachal also recorded significant rainfall.
Yellow alert issued for heavy rain
The cold intensified with temperatures dropping sharply in the higher reaches. Shimla and surrounding areas experienced rain, with a statewide yellow alert issued by the Meteorological Centre, Shimla. Persistent rain has been forecast in various parts of the state until September 19.
Over the past 24 hours, several areas saw considerable rainfall: Guler recorded 64.2 mm, Palampur 46.4 mm, and Dharamshala 41.0 mm. Kalpa and Sangla, part of Kinnaur, received 20.3 mm and 20.8 mm respectively.
117 roads, 34 power transformers closed
The heavy rains and snowfall have severely disrupted infrastructure across the state. As of Friday morning, 117 roads remain blocked due to landslides, with a damaged bridge also reported. In addition, 34 electricity transformers and 11 water supply schemes have been affected, particularly in Shimla and Mandi districts.
Temperatures drop considerably
The cold wave has led to a considerable drop in temperatures across Himachal Pradesh. Keylong recorded the lowest temperature at 8.8°C while Kalpa experienced 10°C. Other notable temperatures include Shimla at 14°C, Dharamshala at 18°C and Manali at 16.1°C, signalling the onset of winter-like conditions in many regions.
