SHIMLA: Rain and snowfall across Himachal Pradesh on Sunday brought a sharp change in weather, ushering in colder conditions across the state. While rainfall affected lower and plain areas, fresh snowfall in higher reaches intensified the chill, prompting residents to bring out warm clothing.
The weather remained cloudy from the morning, followed by light drizzle in some areas and heavy rain accompanied by strong winds in the afternoon. The widespread rainfall ended the dry spell and brought relief from warm conditions, while higher mountain areas witnessed snowfall.
According to the Shimla Meteorological Centre’s forecast, unsettled weather is likely to continue across different parts of Himachal Pradesh over the next five days. Rain is expected in plains and lower areas, while higher-altitude regions may receive light snowfall. Weather conditions may vary across districts.
The change in weather has also affected daily routines, with colder mornings and evenings prompting people, particularly in rural and high-altitude areas, to rely on warm clothing. Rain and snowfall may also increase slippery road conditions and affect traffic on some routes, especially in mountainous areas.
Snowfall Makes High-Altitude Passes Risky
In Lahaul-Spiti, continuous snowfall on high mountain slopes has made travel through mountain passes risky. Deteriorating weather conditions at Baralacha La and Shinkula Pass have added to the difficulties faced by motorists.
Several vehicles travelling from the Zanskar Valley towards Lahaul through Shinkula Pass became stranded during snowfall. The vehicles included two-wheelers and ordinary four-wheel-drive-independent vehicles. After receiving information, Lahaul-Spiti police reached the spot and helped rescue the stranded vehicles and their occupants safely.
Following the incident, police restricted the movement of all two-wheelers and ordinary 4×2 vehicles, which receive power through two wheels, from Darcha towards Baralacha La and Shinkula Pass. Tourists and local residents have been advised against travelling on the restricted routes.
Police Advise Travellers to Use 4×4 Vehicles
DSP Headquarters Keylong KD Sharma urged motorists and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel to high-altitude areas during bad weather. If travel is unavoidable, he advised them to use suitable four-wheel-drive (4×4) vehicles and carry snow chains.
He cautioned that even 4×4 vehicles are not entirely risk-free in adverse weather conditions. Snow can accumulate on roads within a short period, increasing the risk of vehicles skidding and routes becoming blocked.
Sharma also urged travellers to check weather and road conditions before starting their journeys and follow traffic advisories issued by the police and district administration.
Police said the safety of tourists and local residents remained the top priority. Travellers have been advised not to head towards the mountain passes until weather conditions improve and the routes are confirmed safe.
Rain Brings Mixed News for Farmers
The rainfall also brought mixed results for farmers across the state. It is expected to benefit paddy crops that are still ripening, as well as fields being prepared for wheat sowing.
However, crops ready for harvesting suffered damage in some areas. Strong winds also flattened standing crops, adding to farmers’ concerns. The rain ended the dry conditions, raising hopes that the spread of viral infections could decline, although no further details were provided.
