Himachal Hit by Heavy Snowfall and Rains, Travel and Power Disruptions Worsen

Light to moderate snowfall continues to blanket the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh, while intermittent rains have lashed the middle and low hills, causing significant disruptions in traffic and power supply. The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for heavy to very heavy snowfall and rain in Mandi, Kangra, Kullu, and Chamba districts on Thursday and Friday, while Lahaul-Spiti and Shimla districts are under a yellow alert for severe weather conditions.

The harsh weather has severely impacted daily life, with over 160 roads, including two national highways, blocked due to heavy snowfall. The Atal Tunnel Rohtang remains closed, isolating Lahaul from Manali, while NH-305 via Jalori Pass is also impassable. Lahaul has received more than 1.5 feet of snowfall, leaving 90% of villages without electricity. In response, the Lahaul-Spiti administration has declared a holiday for all schools on Thursday, warning of possible avalanches. Chamba district is also reeling under snowfall, with 45 roads blocked and power lines down in multiple areas. Around 165 villages are without electricity, and the tribal region of Pangi has recorded up to one foot of snowfall, forcing residents indoors.

Since Wednesday evening, snowfall levels have reached 20 cm in Keylong, 12 cm in Khadrala, and 9.6 cm in Kukumseri, among other areas. Rainfall figures indicate 29.1 mm in Sarahan, 22.2 mm in Seobagh, and 19 mm in Manali. The coldest temperature was recorded at minus 4.5°C in Tabo, Lahaul-Spiti.

With Himachal Pradesh witnessing a 61% deficit in winter rainfall, the current spell of extreme weather has added to challenges. Authorities advise against unnecessary travel, particularly in higher altitude regions, due to avalanche risks and roadblocks. Restoration of roads and power supply is ongoing, but the persistent snowfall continues to hamper relief efforts.