Himachal Pradesh experiences fresh snow/Rain

Himachalscape bureau Published: February 5, 2025 | Updated: February 5, 2025 3 minutes read

Shimla, Feb 5,

Contents

Road closures due to Snow About the Author Himachalscape bureau

As predicted by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Himachal Pradesh witnessed a wet turn on Tuesday evening, bringing much-needed precipitation to several parts of the state.

The State experienced widespread rain and snowfall over the past 24 hours, bringing chilly conditions and travel disruptions across the state. Popular tourist destinations such as Manali, Kufri, and Narkanda witnessed fresh precipitation, while Shimla recorded 16.2 mm of rainfall. The highest rainfall was reported in Saloni at 44.3 mm, followed by Kasol (30 mm), Karsog (24.3 mm), Bhuntar (21.4 mm), and Jogindernagar (19 mm). Other notable areas receiving moderate rainfall included Banjar with 18.2 mm, Gohar with 16 mm, and Kandaghat with 13 mm.

In higher reaches, fresh snowfall was recorded, further affecting vehicular movement. Kothi received the highest snowfall at 33 cm, followed by Gondla (11 cm), Keylong (9 cm), Kukumseri (8.3 cm), and Bharmaur (8 cm). Manali, a major tourist attraction, witnessed 7.4 cm of snowfall, while Jot received 6 cm. Kalpa recorded 5.1 cm, Kufri 4 cm, and both Shillaroo and Khadrala had 5 cm of fresh snow. The recent spell of snow has made roads slippery, increasing the risk of travel in affected areas.

The cold wave has led to significant temperature variations across the state. Tabo recorded the lowest minimum temperature at -4.3°C, while Una had the highest maximum at 25°C. In major towns, Shimla’s minimum temperature stood at 3.3°C, Manali at 0.3°C, Kalpa at -1°C, Keylong at -4.2°C, and Kufri at 4°C. Dharamshala recorded a minimum of 4.8°C, while Mandi and Bilaspur experienced relatively milder conditions at 10.2°C and 10.6°C, respectively. Thunderstorms with lightning were reported in Shimla, Jubberhatti, Kangra, Sundernagar, Bhuntar, Jot, and Palampur. Dense fog reduced visibility to 500 meters in Bilaspur and 800 meters in Mandi, causing difficulties for motorists.

Road closures due to Snow

The fresh snowfall has made road conditions in Lahaul-Spiti challenging, with several key routes blocked or closed. The Darcha to Shinkula (towards Kargil) and Darcha to Sarchu (NH-003, Leh) routes have been shut, with Jispa receiving approximately 6 inches of snow. Similarly, the Keylong to Darcha, Keylong to Atal Tunnel (NH-003), and ATR to Manali roads are blocked.

The Koksar to Manali route via Rohtang (NH-003) remains inaccessible, with about 1 foot of snow at Sissu. Additionally, the Tandi to Udaipur and Udaipur to Tindi (Kadhu Nullah) roads remain blocked. The Koksar to Losar road via Kunzum Top is also closed, with snowfall reaching 1.5 feet at Koksar. Meanwhile, the Kaza to Losar (NH-505) route is blocked with around 6 inches of snow at Kaza, though the Sumdo to Kaza route remains open despite light snowfall at Sumdo.

Authorities have advised commuters and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel in these snow-affected regions and stay updated with official advisories before planning any trips. Travelers venturing into higher altitudes are urged to use snow chains for vehicles and take necessary precautions to navigate slippery roads safely.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Himachal Pradesh will experience scattered rainfall in some areas, with dense fog likely in isolated places. Thunderstorms with lightning are also expected at isolated locations. However, the weather is expected to turn dry from February 6 onward, with no major precipitation forecast for the coming days.

Authorities have urged people to stay updated with weather advisories and take precautions while traveling, as fresh snowfall has made roads treacherous in high-altitude regions.

Himachalscape bureau

Administrator

The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

View All Posts

Himachalscape bureau