Himachal awaits Wet Spell under overcast weekend skies
Shimla, Jan 11,
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Himachal Pradesh is gearing up for a fresh spell of inclement weather as thick clouds loom over its skies. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for at least eight districts, warning of light to moderate snowfall and rainfall over the next 24 hours, signaling the onset of another active winter phase. Kangra, Kullu, Kinnaur, Mandi, Shimla, Solan and Sirmour
High-altitude regions, including Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and parts of Chamba, are expected to receive significant snowfall, while moderate snow is forecast for the upper reaches of Kullu and Kangra districts. Rainfall activity is likely to cover Mandi district, with isolated showers anticipated in Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Shimla, and Solan. However, Kangra and Sirmaur districts may see relatively stable conditions during this period.
Dark clouds have already blanketed regions like Manali and Keylong, where preparations are underway for the approaching weather system. While the road network has been partially impacted by snow in some areas, the Atal Tunnel remains operational with restrictions, allowing the movement of four-wheel drive and chain-fitted vehicles.
In Lahaul-Spiti, the district administration has reported several road closures due to heavy snowfall. Routes such as Darcha to Shinkula and Darcha to Sarchu on National Highway-3 towards Leh remain impassable. However, the Keylong to Darcha route is open under cloudy conditions. The Koksar to Losar road via Kunzum Pass remains snowbound, while the Tandi-Udaipur and Udaipur-Tindi Nullah roads are functional. On NH-505, routes from Kaza to Losar and Sumdo to Kaza are operational but under overcast skies.
Despite the overcast weather, minimum temperatures across the state have remained above normal for January. Tourist hub Manali recorded -0.9°C, while Kalpa stood at 0°C. Shimla registered 6°C, and Bhuntar airport recorded 1.6°C. Dharamshala, Una, Nahan, and Kangra saw minimum temperatures of 4.5°C, 4.4°C, 7°C, and 5.4°C, respectively. Mandi recorded 5.2°C, Bilaspur 7.9°C, Hamirpur 6.2°C, and Dalhousie 4°C.
The IMD has urged residents and travelers to exercise caution, particularly in snowbound and landslide-prone areas, as the state prepares for a shift in its winter landscape. Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, ensuring safety and accessibility amid challenging conditions.
