Himachal Pradesh Faces Unseasonal Cold Wave with Heavy Snowfall

Severe Weather Conditions in Himachal Pradesh

SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh is currently undergoing an unexpected cold wave, with heavy snowfall and rain affecting various regions of the state, leading to a significant drop in temperatures. Over the past two days, temperatures have decreased by as much as 19 degrees Celsius in certain areas, making October resemble mid-December.

Higher altitudes, such as Rohtang, Baralacha, and Shinkula passes, have recorded more than half a foot of snow since Sunday night.

The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has noted that while light snowfall in higher elevations during October is typical, the severity of the current weather is unusual and has greatly disrupted daily life and agricultural activities.

Impact on Agriculture and Crops

Farmers Concerned as Weather Conditions Deteriorate

The unexpected rain and snow have raised alarms among farmers, especially those in the lower and mid-hill regions. In the lowlands, the paddy crop is at the harvesting stage, and many farmers had already started cutting. However, strong winds and rain have flattened fields, damaging crops and raising concerns about potential post-harvest losses.

In the Lahaul valley, the fresh snowfall poses a risk of apple tree branches breaking due to the weight of the fruit and snow. Additionally, the sharp temperature drop is likely to impact vegetable crops that are nearing harvest.

Transportation Disruptions Due to Snow

Key Routes Blocked, Vehicles Stranded

Traffic on the Manali-Leh and Manali-Shinkula highways has been halted due to snow accumulation, leaving numerous vehicles, including fuel tankers, stranded in areas like Mandi and Darcha. Vehicles en route to Leh are stuck at Upshi and Sarchu, while those returning remain immobilized in high-altitude regions.

Authorities have established a temporary police outpost at Jispa to assist stranded travelers and ensure their safety. Meanwhile, landslides caused by ongoing rain in districts such as Mandi and Chamba have disrupted power supply and road connectivity. The Chamba-Pathankot National Highway is blocked at Perel Ghar, with vehicles being rerouted through alternative paths.

Excessive Rainfall and Snowfall Affect Daily Life

Weather Records Exceed Monthly Averages

So far in October, the state has recorded 17.9 mm of rainfall, surpassing the monthly average. Several areas have experienced drastic temperature drops: Kukumseri saw a decrease of 19.1°C, Tabo 15.8°C, Kangra and Hamirpur 11°C, Keylong 10°C, and Bharmour 10.6°C. In the Pangi subdivision, Kilaar received nearly 4 inches of snow, while higher villages like Chasak Bhatori and Hoodan Bhatori experienced 7-8 inches.