SHIMLA, Oct 6: Higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh witnessed fresh snowfall for the second consecutive day on Monday, bringing a sharp dip in minimum temperatures and signalling the early onset of winter in the hill state. The fresh spell of snow added a scenic charm to the mountains but also raised concerns over possible disruptions in high-altitude regions.
According to the Meteorological Department, Gondhla and Keylong in the Lahaul and Spiti district recorded 5 cm and 4 cm of snowfall, respectively, blanketing the region in white and drawing tourists and locals alike to witness the season’s early snow. The sudden change in weather led to a notable fall in night temperatures across the higher reaches, with the chill extending into mid-hill areas as well.
Meanwhile, intermittent rains lashed several parts of the state, with Guler recording the highest rainfall of 42 mm since Sunday evening, followed by Nagrota Suriyan with 38.4 mm, Bharwain 37 mm, Dehra Gopipur 35 mm, Pachhad 34.2 mm, Aghar 32.8 mm, Nadaun 28 mm, and Murari Devi 27 mm. Thunderstorms were reported in Jot, Murari Devi, Sundernagar, Bhunter, Kangra, Palampur, and Shimla, while gusty winds with speeds between 41 and 57 kmph swept through Hamirpur, Narkanda, Kufri, Bajaura, Reckong Peo, Tabo, and Kotkhai.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) in the districts of Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi for Monday. It has also issued a yellow warning for isolated thunderstorms and gusty winds in parts of the state on Tuesday.
Authorities have advised residents and tourists to exercise caution in view of the changing weather conditions, particularly in high-altitude and landslide-prone areas. Travellers heading towards Lahaul-Spiti and other higher reaches have been urged to check local weather forecasts before undertaking journeys.