Snowfall warning for Shimla–Manali belt: IMD predicts intense spell on Jan 23
Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Shimla, Jan 20,
Residents, tourists and transport services across Himachal Pradesh finally seem set to face severe weather disruption as the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy snowfall at isolated locations on January 23, under the influence of successive western disturbances.
According to the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, light to moderate snowfall is likely at many places in the higher reaches and adjoining mid-hill areas from the late night of January 22 till the morning of January 24. The most intense spell is expected on January 23, when heavy snowfall is very likely at isolated places in the higher reaches of Chamba, Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti districts, prompting the orange alert.
Popular tourist destinations including Shimla, Manali, Kufri, Narkanda, Solang Valley and Sissu are also expected to witness snowfall, with a few intense spells during the day.
The IMD has also issued a yellow alert for heavy rainfall at isolated places over Una, Bilaspur and Kangra districts on January 23. In addition, cold day conditions are very likely to prevail over Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra and Mandi, as daytime temperatures are expected to drop sharply.
Weather officials have further warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph over several districts, including Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Chamba, Kangra, Kullu and Mandi during January 22–23, and over Shimla, Solan and Sirmaur on January 23. Parts of Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti may experience sustained winds of 45–55 kmph on the same day.
Adding to the WD from January 22nd onwards, the IMD has indicated the possibility of another active western disturbance around January 26, which may again trigger snowfall in higher altitudes and rainfall in lower and mid-hill districts. Day temperatures across the state are expected to fall by 6–8 degrees Celsius, intensifying cold day conditions in several areas.
Authorities have cautioned residents and tourists about slippery roads, reduced visibility, traffic disruptions and potential damage to horticulture and standing crops. People have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel to higher reaches, strictly follow official advisories, and remain alert to updated weather bulletins. The state administration has been asked to stay on high preparedness to deal with any eventuality arising from the adverse weather conditions.
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