Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Shimla, Oct 6,
Barely two weeks after an unusually prolonged and excessive monsoon season, Himachal Pradesh is witnessing an early onset of winter-like chill, marked by fresh snowfall in the higher reaches and widespread rainfall across the state.
According to the Lahaul and Spiti Police, several key mountain routes have been closed following heavy snowfall and adverse weather conditions. Roads from Darcha to Shinkula, Darcha–Sarchu (NH-003), Koksar to Palchan via Rohtang Pass, and Koksar to Lossar via Kunzum Top have been shut down after overnight snowfall. Travelers have been cautioned to avoid unnecessary movement as conditions remain unstable.
Light snowfall of about half an inch has been reported from Darcha, while Keylong, Kaza, and Gondola witnessed intermittent flurries through the day. Officials attributed the fresh inclement weather to the combined effect of Shakshi Cyclones and Western Disturbances, bringing both rain and snow to the region.
The early October rainfall has been exceptionally high across Himachal Pradesh, adding to the unusual weather transition. Between October 1 and 6, the state recorded an average of 17.9 mm of rainfall against a normal of 5.2 mm, marking a 244% departure from the seasonal average. The spike was most prominent in Bilaspur (583%), Hamirpur (482%), and Kangra (376%), while even typically dry districts like Kinnaur (325%) and Kullu (307%) saw substantial increases.
The sharp dip in temperature has sent residents rushing for woollens nearly a month ahead of schedule. Towns like Keylong, Kaza, and Shimla wore a deserted look as people stayed indoors amid dense cloud cover and damp air.
Officials said road clearance and essential movement remain affected, especially in snow-bound stretches of Lahaul and Spiti, where machinery faces hurdles due to continuous precipitation. The Meteorological Department has warned that cold conditions are likely to intensify further in the coming days if precipitation persists.
From record October rainfall to early-season snowfall, Himachal Pradesh now finds itself caught between an overstretched monsoon and a premature winter, hinting at a prolonged cold spell ahead.
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