Shimla, May 23,
Himachal Pradesh is experiencing a mix of extreme weather conditions over the past 24 hours. Several areas are enduring an intense heatwave, while others have faced rain showers and windstorms. The maximum temperature in Una has soared to around 43 degrees Celsius, while popular tourist spots like Manali and Shimla have recorded temperatures of 25 and 27 degrees Celsius, respectively.
In terms of rainfall, Sujanpur Tira in Hamirpur district received six mm, Sundernagar in Mandi saw 3.2 mm, Palampur in Kangra recorded three mm, Bilaspur had 2.4 mm, and Sangrah in Sirmour noted two mm of rain.
Windstorms have also impacted certain areas, with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reporting gusts of 55 km/h in Reckong Peo (Kinnaur), 40 km/h in Bilaspur and Nauni, and 39 km/h near Tabo Monastery. A western disturbance and cyclonic circulation are expected to bring light rain and further windstorms today, leading the Met office to issue a yellow alert for thunderstorms with lightning at isolated places. However, the rest of the state is likely to continue facing heatwave conditions, particularly in the plains and mid-hill areas.
Tourist destinations such as Manali, Shimla, McLeodganj, and Dalhousie are currently crowded with visitors seeking relief from the scorching heat. The Lahaul-Spiti district administration has reported that the 13,050 ft Rohtang Pass is partially open to tourists eager to experience the snow. The Atal Tunnel Rohtang is also seeing a significant influx of tourists and locals.
In a major update, the Manali-Leh NH-3 has been opened to the general public today. However, the movement of traffic is being strictly regulated from Darcha to Sarchu due to ongoing election duty by Central Armed Forces. Traffic is permitted from Darcha towards Sarchu from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM for 4×4 vehicles, 4×2 vehicles with chains, and heavy vehicles like trucks. The movement of motorcycles is also restricted during this period. On May 24, the direction will reverse, allowing travel from Sarchu towards Darcha only.
Travelers are advised to follow the movement schedule strictly and avoid unnecessary stoppages between Darcha and Sarchu. Vehicles must comply with the specified requirements in the advisory. Due to inclement weather, there is a possibility of avalanches or rock falls, and travelers should exercise extreme caution. In case of snowfall, it is recommended to find and stay in safe locations. Hotel and homestay owners are urged to inform their guests of the potential risks.
The state is expected to continue facing heatwave conditions for the next five days. Residents are advised to take precautions against the heat and use drinking water judiciously. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a heatwave alert for the foothills and mid-hills for the next three days, with maximum temperatures remaining four to five degrees above normal.
Additionally, several parts of Shimla are experiencing water supply rationing every two to three days due to the ongoing heatwave.
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