Shimla, Nov 24,
The onset of winter has arrived in the high-altitude regions of Himachal Pradesh, with the first light snowfall blanketing areas like the Atal Tunnel Rohtang, Rohtang Pass, Gulaba, and Spiti. The snowfall, which commenced in the evening on Saturday (Nov 23), signals the start of the winter season in the higher reaches of Kullu district.
This event brings welcome news for the tourism industry in Kullu-Manali, as tourists and local businesses eagerly anticipate the winter season.
Prior to the snowfall, temperatures had already plummeted significantly in many areas. Tabo, in Lahaul Spiti, recorded a minimum temperature of minus 8.7°C, while other areas such as Samdo, Kukumsari, and Keylong also experienced sub-zero temperatures.
These frigid conditions mark the beginning of winter, as temperatures continue to decline across the state.
However, while the higher altitudes have been blessed with snowfall, the rest of the state remains parched. Regions like Mandi, Bilaspur, and Shimla have experienced light rainfall, but the drought persists.
Farmers have been severely impacted by the lack of rain, with 63% of wheat sowing still incomplete, as the ideal sowing period has already elapsed. The drought has also led to a reduction in water levels in rivers and streams, affecting drinking water supply and irrigation schemes. Consequently, the decrease in water flow has had a negative impact on hydroelectric power generation.
The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for fog in parts of Mandi and Bilaspur, where visibility could drop below 50 meters. Drivers are advised to exercise caution on the roads due to reduced visibility.
While the dry spell continues in lower regions, the snowfall in the high-altitude areas has brought joy to tourists, particularly those eager to witness the winter wonderland of Rohtang and its surroundings.
As the weather is forecast to improve in the coming days, the light snowfall in the mountains serves as a reminder of the approaching winter season in Himachal Pradesh.
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