Snowfall in Atal Tunnel and Lahaul Valley, 250 sheep and goats died in an avalanche

October 22, 2025

The high altitude areas of Himachal Pradesh have been covered in a blanket of snow. Early Wednesday morning, the weather changed in the Kullu district and the tribal district of Lahaul-Spiti. While Kullu district received heavy rain, Lahaul experienced its second snowfall of the winter. The Chandra Valley has been covered in snow too.

Furthermore, Rohtang Pass, Baralacha, Shikunla Pass, Kunzum Pass, and the Atal Tunnel area have also been covered in a blanket of snow. The snowfall has also brought smiles to the faces of the valley’s tourism businesses. Meanwhile, the capital, Shimla, has been experiencing sunshine since this morning.

Snow wreaks havoc in Jarasu Jot
Meanwhile, shepherds traveling from Bada Bhangal to Kangra via Holi were struck by snow in Jarasu Jot, Chamba. The avalanche and cold killed approximately 250 sheep and goats. Two shepherds also suffered ice burns due to prolonged exposure to snow. These shepherds are residents of Gwaltikkar in Kangra district. The incident is reported to have occurred on Friday, and the Panchayat representative from Nyagran in Chamba district was informed of it on Saturday.

Two Shepherds Injured
Following this, Panchayat head Ashok Kumar dispatched a team of villagers to conduct a rescue operation on Saturday morning. The Ravi River’s water level had risen at Dhardi to reach Jarasu Jot. The villagers risked their lives and crossed the river by building a wooden bridge. After considerable effort, the villagers rescued the injured shepherds Krishna Kumar and Jogendra, along with their remaining sheep and goats. After receiving first aid at Holy Hospital, the two shepherds were referred to Tanda Medical College, where they are receiving treatment for ice burns and other injuries.

Learn about the weather for the next week
According to the Meteorological Center, Shimla, light rain and snowfall is expected at some places on October 22nd. Clear weather is forecast across the state from October 23rd to 28th. However, there will be no significant change in maximum temperatures over the next 2-3 days. Minimum temperatures will likely drop by approximately 1-2 degrees Celsius over the next 2-3 days.