Rain, cold wave dampen Dhanteras festivities in Himachal, clear weather predicted for Diwali
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The Newz Radar
SOLAN/SHIMLA: The festive fervour of Dhanteras was dampened a bit on Friday (November 10, 2023) as rain was received in various parts of Himachal Pradesh, leading to concerns among people, particularly traders.
The sudden change in weather revived the cold wave in the state even as several areas in the tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti were adorned with snow. The higher mountain passes were blocked for traffic.
Despite prior forecasts of rain on November 10, many traders had not made adequate arrangements. Those who had set up stalls in open areas or outside their shops faced the brunt of the inclement weather.
Dhanteras, known for bustling shopping activities, typically sets the stage for the grand Indian festival of Diwali, celebrated just two days later. However, the rain hindered the usual shopping momentum. “We were caught unawares. A tarpaulin sheet came to our rescue as we had spread goods outside our shop,” said a trader in Solan.
The meteorological department, meanwhile, has predicted clear weather for November 11 and a day later for Diwali.
Khoksar in Lahaul witnessed 8.8 cm of snow, while incessant rain affected various parts of the state, including Dalhousie. The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued a yellow alert for rain and snowfall across diverse Himachal regions, coinciding with a prevailing cold wave enveloping the entire state.
This shift in weather patterns is credited to a western disturbance, noticeable through the presence of light clouds in Shimla.
