Himachal weather: Fresh snowfall recorded in higher reaches, 150 roads blocked across Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur

Sunil Chadha
Shimla: Fresh snowfall has been recorded across the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh, including Lahaul-Spiti district, leading to renewed disruptions in the region.

Rohtang Pass, Atal Tunnel and Lahaul Valley received fresh snow, making travel and daily activities more challenging. From Monday night to Tuesday morning, higher altitudes experienced snowfall, while Kullu and lower areas were lashed by heavy rain.

In Lahaul, around 136 electricity transformers have stopped functioning, increasing difficulties for residents. Nearly 150 roads across Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur remain blocked, hampering connectivity.

More rain, snow expected till March 17

According to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, light snowfall and rain are expected in higher altitudes of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, Kangra and Kullu districts on March 11 and 17.

On March 12, scattered regions in the state may witness light to moderate rainfall and snowfall. The forecast predicts similar conditions on March 13 and 16, while March 14 and 15 are expected to bring widespread rain and snowfall across the state.

A yellow alert has been issued for March 14, warning of heavy rain in Kangra, Kullu and Mandi, as well as heavy snowfall in Lahaul-Spiti.

Additionally, a high-wind alert has been placed for multiple districts from March 12 to 15. Meteorologists predict no significant changes in minimum and maximum temperatures over the next 24 hours.
However, a gradual drop of 3-4°C in minimum temperature and 3-5°C in maximum temperature is expected in the coming days.

In the past 24 hours, Manali recorded 5 mm of rain, Kothi 3.6 mm, Bharmour 1.5 mm, Sundernagar 1.2 mm, Shilaroo 1 mm and Bhuntar 0.1 mm. Snowfall was significant in regions like Gondhla (16 cm), Keylong (15 cm) and Kukumseri (3.8 cm).