SHIMLA, HIMACHAL PRADESH — A sudden and intense weather shift has transformed Himachal Pradesh, as heavy hailstorms, sleet, and fresh snowfall in the higher reaches have plunged the state into a “January-like” cold wave. The capital city of Shimla turned into a white landscape on Monday afternoon after a relentless hailstorm lashed the town, causing the mercury to drop sharply and forcing residents to bring out their heavy winter gear once again.
Snow-Clad Peaks and Stranded Tourists
The higher altitudes of the state, including the Atal Tunnel, Lahaul-Spiti, and the Dhauladhar range, received a fresh blanket of snow. This abrupt transition caused chaos for travelers, with nearly 1,000 vehicles getting stranded near the Atal Tunnel’s south portal on Sunday and Monday due to slippery road conditions. While the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and local police have been working tirelessly to clear the routes, the administration has urged tourists to avoid venturing into high-altitude areas until the weather stabilizes.
Orange Alert: Thunderstorms and Hail for 4 Districts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Shimla has issued an Orange Alert for the next 48 hours, specifically targeting the districts of Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, and Kangra. Residents in these areas are warned of:
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Severe Thunderstorms: Accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching 40–50 kmph.
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Intense Hailstorms: Which could potentially damage the standing Rabi crops and fruit orchards.
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Temperature Drop: Many stations have already recorded a dip of 5–7°C, with nighttime temperatures in Lahaul-Spiti falling well below freezing.
Extended Rain Spell: 6 Days of Clouds
Meteorologists have linked this activity to a powerful Western Disturbance that is currently crossing Northwest India. According to IMD Scientist Shobhit Katiyar, a fresh system is expected to keep the sky overcast and bring intermittent rain and snow across the state until March 21. While the moisture is being welcomed by apple growers and farmers as a “boon” for the soil after a dry spell, the accompanying hail remains a significant threat to delicate blossoms.
Impact on Daily Life
Life in the hill state has taken a slow turn as dark clouds frequently envelop the towns, requiring vehicles to ply with headlights on even during the day. In Shimla, the sudden sleet made walking on pedestrian paths hazardous. Schools and local businesses have noted a significant drop in footfall as the biting cold keeps many indoors. The weather department has advised those traveling on the national highways to be cautious of “black ice” and potential landslides triggered by the rain.