Partly sunny and cloudy skies provide major respite from cold-wave condition

Partly sunny and Cloudy skies provide a major respite from cold-wave conditions in Himachal Pradesh. Despite inclement weather conditions and light snowfall on the high reaches, the State registered increase in both minimum and maximum temperatures as mercury stayed several degrees above normal.

Partly cloudy and sunny skies improvised cold-wave which raised the mercury above normal, inform weather analysts. On the other hand, where the people were expecting respite from dry weather conditions have been highly dismayed as it remained the same in the last 24 hours in most of the state.

Keeping in preview the current dry conditions, an advisory has been issued by Horticulture department directing farmers to stop training and pruning in the orchards in such draught like condition recommending application of micronutrients. Sudden change in the weather conditions and abnormal increase in temperature may affect plant dormancy, informed a horticulture expert.

Meanwhile, minimum temperature of Keylong was minus 1.7 degrees which was seven degrees above normal. Kalpa in Kinnuar two degrees, Shimla 10.3 and 7.5 degrees above normal, Narkanda 6, Kufri and Chamba 8.7, Dalhousie 9, Solan, Mandi, and Manali six degrees, Hamirpur 7.7 and Bilaspur 5.5.

However Lahaul & Spiti district continues to get wet. The India Meteorological department recorded three centimetre snow at Keylong the headquarter of the tribal district. Kukamseri also received 3.2 mm rainfall.

The district administration Lahaul-Spiti has sounded an advisory for commuters and tourist. ”  Keeping in view the road and weather conditions in the district, and the Black Ice Phenomenon and slippery road conditions on NH 003, all Locals and Pangi bound Vehicles are allowed (Except Truck & Two Wheeler) to enter district via ATR (vice versa) from 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM only.” Adding, “Only 4 X4 vehicles are allowed to enter the district via ATR upto North Portal ( vice versa ) from 10:00 AM to 03:00 PM only till further orders. The police department Lahaul & Spiti will oversee the traffic management and coordinate with District Kullu Police. Due to inclement weather Locals & tourists are advised to be very cautious while traveling in the valley. In case of snowfall, they are requested to move and stay in safe places. All Hotel and Homestay owners are also requested to advise their guests likewise.”

Met Office forecast mainly dry weather in the next 24 hours. However 11th January onwards they also predict, rain snow in most parts of the mid and high hills of the State.