Himachal Pradesh has recently experienced significant snowfall, leading to travel advisories and alerts for residents and tourists alike. The picturesque town of Manali saw snowfall starting around 4 AM, accumulating to about 4 inches. Consequently, the Atal Tunnel at Rohtang has been closed for vehicular traffic, ensuring safety due to hazardous conditions caused by snow-packed roads.
Locations across the state, particularly higher altitudes, have been blanketed with fresh snow. Reports indicate minor accumulations elsewhere, with Kalpa gathering about 0.2 cm and Dharamshala experiencing light snowfall, receiving 2 mm. Heavy snow has been recorded especially in the Lahaul-Spiti region, which has compelled local authorities to ask both residents and tourists to refrain from venturing out to elevated areas.
The local meteorological department has issued several weather alerts, forewarning residents of the continuing cold wave impacting parts of Una and Berthin, and shallow fog conditions reported around Mandi. A yellow alert has been implemented for thunderstorms and lightning across various districts, highlighting the unpredictable weather patterns attributed to the recent western disturbance centered over west Afghanistan.
While many areas received much-needed precipitation, the overall conditions have exacerbated slips and slides, causing the police to advise caution on the roads, particularly for those traveling through these hilly terrains. The situation reflects the delicate balance between ensuring tourist safety and promoting the natural beauty of the region, which often attracts visitors even during the colder months.
Weather predictions anticipate the snow and rain to persist until early afternoon, after which residents can expect clearer conditions for the next couple of days. Nonetheless, the forecast indicates another round of possible snowfall returning by February 8. With temperature fluctuations ranging from -7.1 degrees Celsius recorded in Tabo to 25 degrees Celsius in Una, it’s apparent how diverse the climate can be within this Himalayan region.
Images from various sites across Himachal showcase the dramatic transformation the landscapes have undergone due to the snowfall, promising excellent opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. The captivating views can be credited as both benefiting tourism when conditions stabilize and posing risks when travel is necessary.
This recent weather phenomenon reminds us of the natural beauty and the challenges it poses for the state of Himachal Pradesh. Awareness and preparedness are key for residents and visitors, ensuring everyone can enjoy what winter has to offer without unnecessary risks.