Shimla, Feb 15,
High-altitude areas of Himachal Pradesh, including Lahaul-Spiti, Kullu, Chamba, Kinnaur, and Shimla districts, are experiencing mild to light snowfall, intensifying the cold wave across the state. Light clouds continue to hover over most parts, contributing to the chilly conditions.
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Reports indicate that snowfall has been observed in various high reaches, including Kullu, Shimla, Kinnaur, Kangra, and Chamba districts. In Lahaul-Spiti, mild to light snowfall is ongoing, with authorities issuing travel advisories.
The Lahaul-Spiti district police have urged commuters to exercise caution while driving in snowfall-affected areas. Superintendent of Police Mayank Chaudhary stated that snowfall has begun near Jispa, and heavy snowfall is making driving conditions more hazardous. Snow-covered roads and reduced visibility pose significant risks, and travelers are advised to avoid unnecessary journeys unless it is an emergency. For real-time updates on road conditions and emergencies, people can contact the District Disaster Control Room at mobile number 8988092298.
Keeping in view the heavy snowfall in the Narkanda region and snow accumulation on NH 05, and in order to ensure the safety of commuters, traffic has been diverted from Sainj to Shimla via Luhri/Sunni, stated a official spokesperson in Shimla.
The state remains under the grip of a cold wave, with light snowflakes reported across several areas. The Meteorological Centre, Shimla, has predicted light rain or snowfall with thunderstorms and lightning in isolated pockets of Shimla City and surrounding areas. Light rain is expected at a few locations, with thunderstorms and lightning in parts of Hamirpur, Una, and Bilaspur, and isolated places in Solan, Sirmaur, Mandi, and Shimla. Light snow is likely in parts of Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur and at isolated places in the higher reaches of Chamba and Kangra. Light rain or snow may occur at a few places across the remaining districts.
The cold wave has led to a significant drop in temperatures. Kukumseri recorded -5.3°C, Keylong -3.3°C, Tabo -2.8°C, Kalpa 1°C, Manali and Solan 5°C each, Shimla 4.5°C, Bhuntar Airport 4.2°C, and Jubberhati 9.4°C. Dharamshala recorded 5.5°C, Kangra and Mandi 8.8°C each, Una 7°C, Nahan 10°C, Bilaspur 7.5°C, Chamba 8.5°C, and Dalhousie 6.4°C.
With snowfall continuing and temperatures remaining low, residents and travelers are advised to take necessary precautions and stay updated on weather forecasts and road conditions.
