Shimla, Dec 26,
Himachal Pradesh is set to experience fairly wide spread snow and rain at several locations on December 27 and 28, as per forecasts from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). ” Wet and cold day conditions most likely over Himachal Pradesh on 27th and 28th Dec., 2024 (Orange alert),” stated a media statement from IMD. Adding, Abatement of cold wave, fog and ground frost conditions very likely during 27th – 29th December.
Lighter precipitation is likely on January 29 and 30, while the rest of the week is expected to remain mostly dry. Authorities and those in charge must prepare more aggressively to address the challenges posed by the predicted weather conditions.
The IMD also highlighted significant temperature fluctuations, with the maximum temperature expected to dip by 6-8 degrees Celsius on December 27 and 28, followed by a recovery of 4-6 degrees Celsius on December 29 and 30. The minimum temperature may rise by 3-4 degrees Celsius over the next three days before dropping again by 2-3 degrees Celsius. Severe cold wave conditions are anticipated in the lower hills and plains late at night on December 26, as well as during the early mornings and nights of December 29 and 30. Ground frost is likely on December 27, 29, and 30, particularly in the mornings, while cold day conditions are expected to intensify on December 27 and 28.
Dense fog may blanket areas near the Bhakra Dam reservoir (Bilaspur) and parts of the Balh Valley (Mandi), with moderate fog forecasted for Hamirpur and Kangra late on December 26 and during the mornings and nights of December 29 and 30.
The impact of the recent weather disturbances starting December 22 onwards has already been severe. Tabo recorded the lowest minimum temperature in the state at -12.1°C over the past 24 hours. Other notable temperatures included Sundernagar (0.3°C), Bhuntar (-0.9°C), Manali (-1.8°C), Kalpa (-1.6°C), Una (1.8°C), Hamirpur (2.3°C), and Bilaspur (3.5°C).
In terms of infrastructure, around 157 roads, including three National Highways—NH-03 (Manali-Leh Highway), NH-305 (Jalori Pass), and NH-505 (Spiti region)—remain blocked. District-wise, Kullu reported 25 road closures, including NH-03 and NH-305, while Shimla faced disruptions on 72 roads, Lahaul and Spiti on 36 (including NH-505), Mandi on 10, Chamba on 5, and Kinnaur on 4 roads.
Power disruptions affected 25 distribution transformers in Chamba, Kullu, and Shimla, and 12 water supply schemes were also impacted. Snowfall, icy road surfaces, and damaged infrastructure have compounded the difficulties, necessitating immediate restoration efforts.
With more adverse weather conditions on the horizon, authorities must prioritize preparations to mitigate disruptions and ensure public safety. Residents and travelers are advised to stay vigilant and follow weather advisories during this period.
