Shimla, Feb 19,
The Meteorological Department has issued an Orange Alert for Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi districts of Himachal Pradesh, warning of heavy rain and snowfall on February 20, 2025. A Western Disturbance moving east-northeastward is expected to bring widespread precipitation across the state from the midnight of February 19 to the forenoon of February 21, they stated in a media release.
Support Independent Journalism Complete Your Membership
Choose Your Membership
Adding that, tourist destinations such as Kufri, Narkanda, Manali, Solang Valley, Dalhousie, and Sissu may witness moderate snowfall, while Shimla city and surrounding areas may receive light snowfall. Light to moderate snowfall is likely in Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and higher reaches of Kangra, Chamba, Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, and Sirmaur districts, stated IMD.
Heavy snowfall is expected in isolated areas of Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi on February 20. Lower regions, including Solan, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, and Una, may experience light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning, they added.
The weather conditions may lead to slippery roads, low visibility, traffic congestion, and possible disruption of essential services. Residents and travelers are advised to drive cautiously, limit outdoor activities, and follow government advisories.
As per the media communique the maximum temperature is expected to drop by 6-7°C on February 20, followed by a rise of 4-5°C on February 21 and 22. Minimum temperatures may rise by 3-4°C on February 20 and fall again by 3-4°C on the following days. Cold day conditions are expected in the lower and mid-hill regions. The Meteorological Department has also issued a Yellow Alert for thunderstorms and lightning in the lower and mid-hills on February 20.
