Pallavi Sharma
DHARAMSHALA:
The weather in Himachal Pradesh has taken a sharp turn as higher hills continue to receive fresh snowfall, while several other areas have been experiencing rain. The change in weather has led to a noticeable drop in temperatures, with maximum temperatures dipping by 2 to 5 degrees Celsius at many places.
Though the snowfall has added beauty to the region, it has disrupted travel and thrown normal life out of gear in some areas.
In Kullu, continued rain since last night has affected the Dussehra celebrations. Waterlogging and muddy conditions have made it difficult for participants and visitors alike. Stalls and areas set up for festivities are struggling with the downpour, and many people are finding it difficult to move around.
Snowfall shuts key mountain passes
The season’s first snowfall has been reported in Lahaul Valley, Rohtang Pass, North Portal of the Atal Tunnel, Darcha, Jispa and the Seven Sister Peaks.
Popular mountain passes such as Baralacha, Shinku La and Kunzum have turned white again and are now closed for vehicle movement due to heavy snow. In Chamba and Dharamshala, peaks of the Dhauladhar range are also covered in snow.
The return of snowfall this early in October has brought cheer to tourists and local business owners, especially in the tourism and hotel industries.
In Chandra Valley, residential areas have seen early snow this season. Light snowfall was also seen for the first time this year in Mandi’s Shikari Devi area. With the western disturbance becoming active post-monsoon, many high-altitude regions including Manimahesh, Kugti Jot and Sach Pass are now snow-covered.
Heavy rainfall in lower areas of Himachal
Rainfall has affected several towns and valleys, including Shimla, Kullu and other mid-hill regions. Some areas received significant rainfall last night: Guler recorded 42 mm, Nagrota 38.4 mm, Dehra Gopipur 35 mm and Pachhad 34.2 mm. This wet spell has made the weather colder across the state.
Minimum temperatures in various towns were reported as follows: Shimla (11.5°C), Kalpa (6.4°C), Manali (8.5°C), Dalhousie (6°C), Kufri (6.8°C) and Keylong (0.1°C). The lower temperatures are making their presence felt even in areas usually warmer at this time of year.
