In Himachal Pradesh, the higher altitude areas are experiencing snowfall, while other parts of the state are witnessing rainfall due to the activity of Western disturbance. As a result, there has been a noticeable drop in temperatures, contributing to an intensifying cold wave in the region. Despite the current weather conditions, January this year witnessed 86 per cent less rain than the usual average for the month.
Light rain lashed parts of Shimla, Dharamshala, Kangra, Mandi, Chamba, Hamirpur, Una, Sirmaur and Kullu, leading to a sharp dip in temperatures across the state.
According to the Meteorological Department, rain and snowfall are expected to continue in some areas on Wednesday, while clear weather is likely to prevail from Thursday onwards. Dense fog is predicted in the plains on February 6 and 7, potentially affecting visibility.
Fresh snowfall was recorded at Atal Tunnel in Rohtang, Pangi, Bharmour, Dhauladhar ranges, Churdhar in Sirmaur and Kinnaur peaks. The Atal Tunnel’s south portal turned into a winter wonderland, attracting tourists who revelled in the snow.
However, HRTC bus services to Keylong through the tunnel were suspended due to snow accumulation. Rohtang and Kunzum passes received 10 cm of fresh snow, while areas around Atal Tunnel witnessed up to 2 cm of snowfall.
Bharmour and Pangi in Chamba reported 9 cm of snow, with Manimahesh, Kugti, Chauvia, Khaparans, Kalichauh and Dhauladhar hills also experiencing fresh snow. The precipitation brought much-needed relief to farmers, though wheat crops still require more rain.
The maximum temperature stood at 25°C in Una, 23.2°C in Bilaspur and 17.6°C in Shimla. Keylong was the coldest at 4.6°C while Kalpa recorded 7°C. The minimum temperatures dipped significantly, with Tabo shivering at -7.1°C, Kukumseri at -3.4°C and Keylong at 0.3°C. Manali and Shimla recorded minimums of 4.1°C and 7.5°C, respectively.
Fresh snow blocked National Highway-305 via Jalori Pass and the highway passing through Atal Tunnel, disrupting vehicular movement. Farmers and orchardists, however, welcomed the snowfall, which is beneficial for their crops. Tour operators were equally thrilled, expecting an influx of tourists.