Himachal weather update: Met department issues orange alert for heavy rain, snow in 5 districts on March 1, 2

TNR Desk
The Meteorological Centre at Shimla has issued an orange alert across all districts of Himachal Pradesh for an impending storm, heavy rainfall and snowfall in higher elevations on March 1 and 2 (2024).
The advisory comes in response to the activation of a western disturbance, which is anticipated to impact five districts of Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Kinnaur and Lahul-Spiti significantly. The impending weather conditions may disrupt essential services, including electricity, water supply and transportation. The department has also issued a yellow alert for storm and rain until March 4. Consequently, a decrease in both minimum and maximum temperatures is expected over the coming days.
A notable drop in temperatures has been witnessed of late with the maximum temperature plummeting by 9 degrees Celsius and the minimum temperature decreasing by 1 to 5 degrees Celsius.
Meanwhile, the Atal Tunnel at Rohtang in Himachal Pradesh has reopened for tourist traffic after a closure of 12 days. Tourist vehicles have resumed movement along the Manali-Keylong route via the Atal Tunnel, though only 4X4 vehicles are being allowed currently. As the situation stabilises, authorities aim to allow all types of tourist vehicles to proceed beyond Solang Nullah.
Heavy snowfall, which commenced on February 17 in Manali and its surroundings, had necessitated the closure of the tunnel. Initially, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) had only permitted the passage of emergency vehicles following snow clearance.
On Wednesday, four vehicles departed for Lahaul valley, marking the resumption of tourist traffic. later, more than 200 vehicles carrying tourists successfully moved to the other side of the tunnel. As the region braces for adverse weather conditions, the authorities have urged the residents and commuters to exercise caution and stay updated on further developments through official channels.