After days of intense snowfall and disrupted connectivity, weather conditions improved across Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday, bringing much-needed relief to residents and authorities.
Moreover, clear skies were observed over most parts of the state, including the capital city Shimla, where sunshine was accompanied by light cloudy conditions.Nevertheless, the effects of recent snowfall were still being felt. Some of the roads were affected, especially in mountainous regions. In addition, stranded vehicles near the Atal Tunnel were directed towards Manali as a precaution.
Heavy snowfall recorded in various parts of the state
Some parts of the state experienced substantial snowfall during the last few days.
Gondla recorded the highest snowfall of 23.5 cm, followed by Keylong (20 cm), Jot (12 cm), Kukumseri (11.2 cm), Kalpa (8.8 cm), Bharmour (8 cm), upper Manali (5 cm), and Sangla (4.5 cm).
Himachal Pradesh IMD bulletin
Cold weather intensified across the state
The minimum temperatures were recorded 2-6 degrees below normal, while maximum temperatures were recorded 5-12 degrees below normal. Kukumseri was the coldest at -4.6 degrees Celsius, while Neri recorded the highest maximum temperature at 26.7 degrees Celsius.
In Shimla, the minimum temperature settled at 6 degrees Celsius, while other key locations reported:Sundernagar: 5.4°CBhuntar: 2.1°CKalpa: -3.0°CDharamshala: 8.6°CUna: 9.0°CManali: 0.2°C
Snowfall in Himachal Pradesh
Fresh rain and snowfall forecast till March 23
According to the India Meteorological Department, fresh weather activity is expected to return to the state over the coming days. Light to moderate rainfall and snowfall is likely across most parts of Himachal Pradesh between March 18 and 20, with isolated heavy rain and snowfall forecast on March 19 and 20.
District-wise forecast
On March 18, light rain and snowfall are expected in higher reaches of Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, along with parts of Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur. On the other hand, light rainfall is also expected over Shimla and Mandi districts.From March 22 onwards, there will be less activity, and light rainfall is expected at isolated places.
Caution advised as weather conditions continue to change
Caution has been advised, especially at high-altitude places, as fresh snowfall and rainfall are expected again. This could affect road conditions and traveling. It is advisable for people and tourists to be updated about weather conditions, especially at places that are prone to snowfall. Although there was a brief respite from bad weather with clear conditions for some time, Himachal Pradesh is expected to be affected by active weather conditions for some more days.
The state will continue to be cold and sometimes rough.
