Over the past 24 hours, Himachal Pradesh has experienced the first widespread snowfall of the season, covering higher reaches in districts including Chamba, Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, Kangra, Kullu, and Shimla with light snow. While there were earlier isolated instances of snowfall this month, this occurrence is notably more extensive, according to Surender Paul, the Director of the Meteorological Centre in Shimla. Additionally, numerous places across the state have reported light rainfall.
In response to the snowfall, district administrations in Kullu, Mandi, Kinnaur, and Lahaul Spiti have cautioned residents against venturing into higher-altitude areas. Vehicular movement has been halted on routes leading to Rohtang Pass and Baralacha Pass on the Manali-Leh highway, as well as Kunzum Pass. Movement from Solang Nullah to Atal Tunnel and on Jalori Road on NH 305 has also been restricted.
The widespread snowfall has led to a considerable drop in day temperatures in higher altitudes. Surender Paul noted a decline of five to 12 degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures across the state in the last 24 hours, while minimum temperatures remain above normal. Forecasts anticipate further reductions in minimum temperatures over the next few days.
Major tourist destinations like Shimla and Manali have experienced a significant decrease in day temperatures, with a noteworthy 5.5-degree Celsius drop in maximum temperatures. Manali, specifically, recorded a substantial decline of 6.8 degrees Celsius over the last 24 hours. Despite the colder weather, the president of the Shimla Hotels and Tourism Stakeholders’ Association, Mohinder Seth, expressed optimism about increased tourist influx in the lead-up to Christmas and the New Year.
The declining temperatures are viewed positively by apple growers, as sustained low temperatures can aid in meeting the chilling-hour requirement for apple plants. The Weather Department anticipates some relief from the prevailing cold starting from tomorrow onwards.
