Snowfall in high hills, Heavy rain and winds lash Lower Himachal

Shimla, Apr 21,

Adverse weather conditions continued to batter Himachal Pradesh, causing significant disruption across several districts.

While the higher reaches of Lahaul-Spiti and Manali experienced light snowfall, low-lying areas witnessed intense rainfall, thunderstorms, hail, and gusty winds. The unseasonal spell led to a sharp drop in temperatures and blocked roads due to landslides.

Fresh snowfall was reported from Hansa (7.5 cm) and Keylong (2.0 cm), further intensifying cold conditions in the higher altitudes. The mercury dipped across the state, with the highest maximum temperature recorded at Paonta Sahib at 36.0°C.

Heavy rainfall was recorded at several weather stations, with Pooh receiving the highest at 48.2 mm, followed by Saloni (40.4 mm), Kothi (35.4 mm), Kalpa (34.8 mm), and Sangla (31.6 mm). Other stations like Reckong Peo (27.5 mm), Bilaspur (20.2 mm), and Manali (18.0 mm) also received significant precipitation. This widespread rainfall caused waterlogging, soil erosion, and triggered landslides in several vulnerable zones.

Strong windstorms lashed many areas, with Bilaspur recording gusts up to 50 kmph. Seobagh and Kufri reported wind speeds of 46 kmph, followed by Bajaura (44 kmph), Narkanda (39 kmph), and Shimla and Kotkhai at 37 kmph. These winds caused damage to temporary structures, uprooted trees, and disrupted power lines in some localities.

Thunderstorms were reported from Shimla, Kangra, Sundernagar, Bhuntar, Kalpa, Jubberhatti, Jot, and Murari Devi, while a hailstorm hit Shimla and Palampur, damaging crops and fruit orchards.

Vehicular traffic remains disrupted due to landslides on the Udaipur-Kilad and Udaipur-Killar roads, especially near Kadu Nala and Jungle Camp (km 74.400).

Restoration work is ongoing at various points including Nesang Jhula and between Bhagat Nala and Tinku Nala. BRO has confirmed road-clearing operations will begin Monday, weather permitting.

The Meteorological Centre Shimla has advised residents to stay indoors, avoid travel, and follow safety protocols during lightning and hail. Weather is expected to improve in most regions except Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and higher reaches of Chamba and Kullu, where light snow and rain may persist.

About the Author

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

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.