Himachal Pradesh experienced a change in weather after a long dry spell, with snowfall being experienced in several high-altitude areas late on Sunday.
Shimla, Kufri and the upper reaches of the state, including Churdhar in Sirmaur, Kilad in Chamba and Shikari Devi in Mandi, saw their first snowfall of the season. Prominent locations like Rohtang Pass, Baralacha and Koksar in Lahaul-Spiti, as well as Kinnaur’s Chitkul and Kailash ranges, were covered in a white blanket.
Light snow in Dharamshala’s Naddi too
Dharamshala’s Naddi and McLeodganj also witnessed light snowflakes, adding to the scenic beauty.
While Shimla basked in sunlight on Monday morning, the aftermath of the snow brought disruptions. By 10 am, one national highway and 87 roads were blocked for vehicular movement. Additionally, 457 power transformers across districts like Solan, Shimla, Kullu, Mandi and Chamba were affected. Slippery roads in upper Shimla posed challenges, with authorities urging travellers to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel.
Snowfall intensifies cold wave
The fresh snowfall has intensified the cold wave, with minimum temperatures at several locations dipping 2-3°C below normal and maximum temperatures 3-4°C below average.
In the past 24 hours, 10 stations recorded sub-zero temperatures, with Koksar at -6.7°C, Khadrala at -5°C and Keylong at -3°C leading the list. Snowfall measurements included 2.5 cm in Shimla and Nichar, and rain was recorded in places like Kandaghat (2.2 mm) and Sundernagar (0.2 mm).
Atal Tunnel closed for traffic
Atal Tunnel, a popular tourist destination near Manali, has been closed for visitors due to the snowfall. Bus services between Manali and Keylong remain suspended, disrupting connectivity to Lahaul.
Farmers and horticulturists in the region, however, are optimistic. After nearly two-and-a-half months of dry weather, the snowfall has brought hope for improved conditions for crops like wheat, garlic, and stone fruits, which had been suffering due to the lack of rain.
More snowfall, rain predicted today
The Meteorological Department has predicted more snowfall and rain in higher altitudes today, with clear weather expected between December 10 and 15. However, dense fog is likely to blanket the Bhakra Dam and Balh Valley reservoir areas on December 10 and 11.
