Himachal weather update: Orange alert for heavy snow on February 4 in 5 districts; over 500 roads blocked, 674 power transformers shut
The Newz Radar
SHIMLA: After a sunny day and respite from adverse weather, Himachal Pradesh once again found itself blanketed in snow as fresh snowfall graced the higher reaches of the state. The Meteorological department has issued an orange alert for heavy snow on February 4 in the middle and high hills of five districts in the state.
Snow was experienced in the higher reaches on February 3 as well as the picturesque landscape draped in white enthralled tourists, while locals grapple with the challenges posed by the relentless snowfall and rainfall. According to reports from the Meteorological Department, the resumption of snowfall has led to the closure of four national highways and 504 roads across the state as of 10 am on Saturday.
The districts of Shimla, Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti bear the brunt of road closures, with most routes inaccessible due to heavy snowfall and landslides. Furthermore, 674 power transformers remained non-functional, plunging many parts of Chamba, Mandi, Shimla and Kullu into darkness. The breakdown of power infrastructure increased the challenges faced by residents.
Despite the adversity, efforts are underway by board employees and officers to restore power supply and mitigate the impact of the weather-induced disruptions. In Districts Kullu and Lahaul, around 200 roads, 300 electric transformers, and three highways remain closed, intensifying concerns among relevant departments.
The adverse weather conditions severely affected the operations of the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC), with approximately 136 buses stranded across 600 routes statewide. In response, the HRTC has implemented alternative routes to facilitate passenger travel, particularly in the heavily impacted districts of Shimla, Kullu, Kinnaur, Mandi, and Lahaul-Spiti.
The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued forecasts for continued rain and snowfall over the next three days, attributable to the activation of a fresh western disturbance. An orange alert has been issued for heavy snowfall in Kullu, Chamba, Shimla, Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti districts on February 4. Additionally, thunderstorms, lightning, and hailstorms are anticipated in various regions on February 3 and 4.
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