TNR News Network
SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh is experiencing an unexpected cold wave as heavy snowfall and rain lash several parts of the state, causing a dramatic fall in temperatures. In just two days, the mercury has plummeted by up to 19 degrees Celsius in some parts, making October feel more like the middle of December.
Higher elevations, including Rohtang, Baralacha and Shinkula passes, have recorded over half a foot of snow since Sunday night.
According to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, while light snowfall in higher altitudes during October is common, the extent of the current weather event is unusual and has significantly impacted normal life and agriculture.
Standing crops, apple orchards at risk as weather turns hostile
The unseasonal rain and snow have raised concerns among farmers, particularly those in the lower and mid-hill areas. In the lowlands, the paddy crop is at harvest stage and many farmers had already begun cutting. However, high winds and rain have flattened fields, damaging standing crops and raising fears of post-harvest losses.
In the Lahaul valley, fresh snow has increased the risk of apple tree branches breaking under the weight of fruit and snow. A sharp drop in temperature is also expected to affect vegetable crops that were nearing harvest.
Snow-covered roads cut off key routes, vehicles stranded
Traffic movement on the Manali-Leh and Manali-Shinkula highways has been halted due to snow accumulation, leaving many vehicles, including fuel tankers, stranded at places like Mandi and Darcha. Vehicles heading to Leh are stuck at Upshi and Sarchu, while return-bound ones remain immobile in high-altitude zones.
Authorities have set up a temporary police outpost at Jispa to assist stranded travellers and ensure safety. Meanwhile, landslides triggered by persistent rain in districts like Mandi and Chamba have disrupted power supply and road connectivity. The Chamba-Pathankot National Highway remains blocked at Perel Ghar, and vehicles are being rerouted through alternative roads.
Rainfall above normal, snowfall disrupts daily life
The state has so far received 17.9 mm of rainfall in October, exceeding the monthly average. The temperature has nosedived across several areas: Kukumseri saw a 19.1°C drop, Tabo 15.8°C, Kangra and Hamirpur 11°C, Keylong 10°C and Bharmour 10.6°C. In Pangi subdivision, Kilaar received nearly 4 inches of snow, while higher villages like Chasak Bhatori and Hoodan Bhatori saw 7-8 inches.
