Himachal Pradesh Faces Escalating Weather Crisis as IMD Issues Fresh Warnings
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a stern warning that weather conditions in Himachal Pradesh are set to deteriorate significantly starting Monday. A fresh western disturbance is expected to sweep across the region, bringing heavy snowfall and severe disruptions to normal life.
Color-Coded Alerts Signal Impending Danger
In response to the forecast, the IMD has activated a yellow warning for the entire state on Monday. This alert indicates the likelihood of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds at isolated places, urging residents to exercise caution.
For Tuesday, the situation escalates with an orange alert issued specifically for the districts of Kullu, Kinnaur, Chamba, and Lahaul and Spiti. These areas are bracing for heavy snowfall and rain, which could lead to hazardous conditions. The remaining districts of Himachal Pradesh remain under a yellow alert, with forecasts of cold days and potential thunderstorms adding to the concerns.
Current Disruptions Highlight State's Vulnerability
The warnings come amid already severe disruptions caused by heavy snowfall across Himachal Pradesh. As of Sunday, a staggering 835 roads, including three critical national highways, were closed due to the adverse weather. According to the State Emergency Operation Centre, the tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti was hardest hit, with 282 roads blocked, including the vital Leh–Manali highway (NH-3) and the Kaza–Gramphu road (NH-505).
Other districts reported significant closures:
- Shimla: 234 roads closed
- Mandi: 110 roads closed
- Chamba: 78 roads closed
- Kullu: 65 roads closed, including NH-305
- Sirmour: 41 roads closed
- Kinnaur: 18 roads closed
- Kangra: 4 roads closed
- Una: 3 roads closed
Power Supply Severely Impacted Across the State
In addition to transportation woes, power supply has been severely hit, with approximately 1,942 transformers disrupted statewide. This has left thousands of households without electricity, exacerbating the challenges faced by residents. Shimla district reported the highest number of affected transformers at 789, followed by Sirmour (354), Mandi (284), Chamba (277), and Kullu (174).
Recent Weather Patterns and Temperature Extremes
On Sunday, light snowfall and rain were reported at isolated places in the higher reaches, while most parts of the state remained dry. However, cold wave conditions were observed in several areas, including Manali, Una, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, and Bilaspur. The lowest temperature recorded was a chilling minus 10 degrees Celsius at Tabo village in Lahaul and Spiti, underscoring the harsh winter conditions gripping the region.
As Himachal Pradesh prepares for the worsening weather, authorities are urging residents to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety. The IMD's alerts serve as a critical reminder of the state's vulnerability to extreme weather events during this season.
