Shimla, Mar 21
The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a fortnight weather forecast for Himachal Pradesh, indicating prolonged winter conditions with wet weather and cold wave expected to persist for the next two weeks. Currently, the North Western Himalayas are experiencing the influence of several western disturbances, likely to result in wet weather conditions in the coming fortnight.
Minimum and maximum temperatures are anticipated to drop from normal to below normal levels over the upcoming weeks. Key areas such as Lahaul Spiti district and Kalpa are already experiencing temperatures below average, with Keylong recording a chilly minus 3.4 degrees Celsius and Kalpa at 2.8 degrees Celsius. Other popular tourist destinations like Manali, Kufri, and Shimla are also witnessing cooler temperatures ranging from six to 8.4 degrees Celsius.
Predictions
Rainfall, hail, and thunderstorms are forecasted across the state, particularly in the mid and high reaches. From March 21 to March 24, rain or snowfall is expected in various areas, with rain predicted in the foothills as well. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for the next 24 hours due to the likelihood of thunderstorms, lightning, and hail at isolated places.
The recent weather conditions have prompted increased tourist activity in popular destinations like Shimla, Manali, and Dalhousie, following snow clearance operations initiated by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) on NH-3 from Manali to Leh. In preparation for the scheduled Lok Sabha election on June 1, the BRO has been tasked with opening NH-3 and other border roads until the first week of May.
According to the Lahaul Spiti police, road conditions vary across the region. While the Atal Tunnel Rohtang North Portal to Darcha road is open for 4X4 emergency vehicles, the Darcha-Sarchu road remains closed at Darcha and Shankula. Other roads, such as Tindi-Udaipur-Keylong and Sumdo to Lossar, are accessible to 4X4 vehicles, allowing locals and tourists to travel to destinations like Udaipur, Tindi, Sissu, and the north and south portal.
Despite these openings, the road from Losar to Gramphu remains snowbound, posing challenges to travellers in the region.
As the weather continues to influence travel and daily life in Himachal Pradesh, residents and tourists are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and road conditions for safe travel.
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