Heavy rain and snowfall have lashed Himachal Pradesh over the past few days, including popular tourist spots. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that unstable weather will continue, with chances of thunderstorms and hailstorms in the coming days.
A strong western disturbance has caused widespread rain and snow across the state. This has also led to a sharp fall in temperatures. Maximum temperatures have dropped by 2°C to 5°C in many areas and are now well below normal.
IMD Himachal head Shobhit Katiyar said, “Manali recorded around 53 mm of rainfall, while nearby areas received up to 20 mm. Higher reaches have also witnessed snowfall, with significant accumulation reported in some areas.”
According to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, Manali recorded the highest rainfall at 53 mm. It was followed by Sarahan (32.5 mm) and Seobagh (32.4 mm). In higher areas, Gondhla received 13 cm of snowfall, Keylong 12 cm, and Kukumseri 11.4 cm.
He added that heavy rainfall is likely in Chamba, Kangra, Kullu and Mandi on Thursday. An orange alert has been issued for these areas. Heavy snowfall is also expected in Lahaul and Spiti.
“Temperatures across the state are 6–7 degrees Celsius below normal right now. Minimum temperatures are also lower by 2–3 degrees. These conditions are likely to continue for the next two days,” he said.
The IMD also noted sharp temperature differences across regions. Kukumseri recorded the lowest minimum temperature at -0.6°C, while Paonta Sahib was the warmest at 27°C. Shimla saw thunderstorms and lightning, while Mandi reported shallow fog with visibility dropping to around 800 metres.
The weather department said rain and snowfall will continue till March 20. This is due to an upper air cyclonic circulation over Rajasthan and an active western disturbance over Pakistan. Weather activity is expected to reduce on March 21 and 22, before another spell likely around March 23.
Authorities have issued warnings for the next 48 hours. Heavy rain and snowfall may occur at isolated places on March 19 and 20. Thunderstorms with lightning and strong winds of 40–50 kmph, and gusts up to 60 kmph, are also expected. A hailstorm alert has been issued for some areas on March 19.
Residents and tourists have been advised to stay alert, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow official weather updates, especially in high-altitude and sensitive areas.
Also read: Rain, snow to continue across J&K for next 36 hours
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