Himachal Braces for Another Round of Snow and Rain
Himachal Pradesh is once again bracing for rough weather. The Meteorological Center in Shimla has warned that rain and snowfall are likely to return in the coming days, with heavy snow expected in the higher mountains.
The state is still reeling from the last spell of heavy snowfall—roads remain blocked, power lines are down, and tourists are stranded. Now, a new western disturbance is adding to the anxiety.
- Jan 30: A fresh western disturbance will bring light rain and snow to high-altitude areas.
- Jan 31 – Feb 3: Light to moderate rain and snowfall across several districts.
- Feb 1: A yellow alert warns of heavy rain, snow, strong winds up to 60 km/h, lightning, and storms.
- Feb 4: Sunshine is expected to return, offering brief relief from the biting cold.
Dense fog and cold wave alerts have also been issued for Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Kangra. Temperatures are dipping below freezing in Kalpa, Kukumseri, Bharmour, and Tabo, while Shimla and other mid-hill towns remain cold but manageable.
Roads Still Blocked
The aftermath of the last snowfall is stark:
- 800 roads, including four national highways, remain closed.
- 3,000 transformers and 100 water schemes are still out of service.
- Hundreds of tourists in Manali remain stuck due to blocked roads.
Shimla is facing a traffic nightmare, with 12,000–15,000 vehicles entering daily during the tourist season. Authorities are urging visitors to follow weather and traffic advisories to avoid getting stranded.
Power and Water Crisis
Electricity and water supply remain disrupted:
- 669 transformers are down, leaving thousands in darkness.
- 147 drinking water schemes are affected, with Kullu the worst hit.
The snow-draped mountains may look magical to visitors, but for Himachal’s residents, it’s a season of endurance. Behind every postcard-perfect view lies a community waiting for roads to reopen, lights to return, and water to flow again.
