Orange Alert issued in Himachal as Thunderstorm, Hailstorm predicted; Roads mostly open in Lahaul-Spiti

Shimla, May 20,

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for several parts of Himachal Pradesh, warning of thunderstorms, strong winds, and hailstorms likely to affect multiple districts this evening. Issued by the Meteorological Centre in Shimla at 3:00 PM, the alert will remain in effect until 6:00 PM today.

Shimla city and surrounding areas are expected to receive light rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning at isolated locations. Hamirpur, Una, and Bilaspur districts may witness light to moderate rain along with strong winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 km per hour and sporadic hailstorms. Similar weather conditions are also expected in Mandi and Kangra, where wind speeds could reach up to 30 to 40 km per hour. Other regions across the state may experience light rain in scattered pockets.

The IMD has cautioned that the prevailing weather could lead to damage to standing crops, fruit plantations, and horticultural activities. Weak structures and temporary shelters are also vulnerable to partial damage. People have been advised to limit outdoor activities, secure loose items that could be blown away, and remain indoors during adverse weather. Farmers are urged to protect orchards using hail nets or covers, while livestock owners should move animals to safe enclosures. The public is also advised to evacuate water bodies immediately in view of lightning and storm threats.

Meanwhile, road connectivity in Lahaul-Spiti district remains largely unaffected. Major routes including the highways from Darcha to Leh and Manali are open with clear skies and no fresh snowfall reported. However, the route from Koksar to Losar via Kunzum Top continues to remain closed and is not expected to reopen before the summer of 2025. One-way traffic on the Darcha to Shinkula stretch towards Kargil continues to operate on alternate days between 9 AM and 1 PM.

Daytime temperatures across Himachal Pradesh remained above normal. Keylong recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 4.5 degrees Celsius, while Bilaspur registered the highest maximum at 39.6 degrees Celsius. Light to moderate rainfall was recorded from several locations including Nichar with 12.0 mm, Sangla with 11.4 mm, and Kukumseri with 9.6 mm.

The IMD has also indicated that weather disturbances are likely to continue in the coming days due to upper air cyclonic circulations influencing the region. Isolated thunderstorms, gusty winds, and lightning activity may persist as a result of these shifting patterns.

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Himachalscape bureau

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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.

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Himachalscape bureau

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.