IMD Issues Orange Alert for Himachal Pradesh as Western Disturbance Approaches
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has escalated weather warnings by issuing an orange alert for multiple districts in Himachal Pradesh this Sunday. This alert comes in anticipation of significant meteorological activity triggered by an intense Western Disturbance expected to impact the Western Himalayan region from January 26 to 28, 2026.
Detailed Weather Forecast and District-Specific Alerts
In an official communication via X (formerly Twitter), the IMD provided a detailed forecast, indicating that light to moderate snowfall is likely at numerous locations. The department specifically highlighted that several intense spells are very probable across many parts of the high hills and adjoining mid hills of the state during this period.
The official notice further cautioned about a high probability of light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by a few intense spells, at many places over the plains and adjoining mid hills on January 27.
Specific Districts Under Orange and Yellow Alerts
Which areas will be most affected? According to reports from Hindustan Times, the IMD has specifically issued an orange alert for heavy rain or snowfall at isolated places in the following districts for January 27, 2026:
- Chamba
- Kullu
- Kinnaur
- Lahaul-Spiti
Additionally, the MeT department has placed several other districts under a yellow alert for possible hailstorms at isolated locations on the same day. These districts include:
- Una
- Bilaspur
- Solan
- Sirmaur
Impact on Tourist Destinations and Travel Disruptions
Weather officials have indicated that several popular tourist hubs across Himachal Pradesh are likely to experience moderate rain or snowfall. Key destinations such as Naldehra, Manali, Shimla, Kufri, Narkanda, Solang Valley, and Sissu are expected to witness these conditions, with one or two intense spells anticipated during the day.
The alert follows recent disruptions caused by heavy snowfall in Manali over the past 48 hours. Reports indicate that continuous snowfall has led to significant accumulation of one to two feet of snow and dangerous black icing on roads. This has prompted the closure of traffic movement on key stretches of the national highway, causing widespread disruptions in daily life and leaving tourists stranded amid freezing temperatures.
Recent Snowfall Events and Official Statements
Just a day earlier, on January 24, over 600 roads were blocked due to heavy snowfall in districts including Chamba, Kinnaur, Kullu (which includes Manali), Lahaul-Spiti, and Shimla, according to agency reports.
In response to these developments, Himachal Pradesh PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh told ANI that the state has received snowfall after a very long dry spell. He noted that this meteorological event has brought happiness among farmers and orchardists, who rely on such precipitation for agricultural and horticultural activities.
The IMD continues to monitor the situation closely, urging residents and travelers in the affected regions to stay updated with the latest weather advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during this period of anticipated severe weather conditions.
