Many parts of Himachal Pradesh experienced relief from the scorching heat as thunderstorms, rain, and gusty winds swept across the region. Rohtang Pass and nearby areas in Kullu district also saw fresh snowfall on Friday.
A yellow warning has been issued by the local Meteorological Station for thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds. Wind speeds are likely to reach 40–50 kmph at isolated locations in five districts, Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla, on Saturday.
Light rain brought a cooling effect across the region. Jot received 9 mm of rainfall, Kukumseri 6.8 mm, Keylong 5 mm, Dharamshala 2.1 mm, Chamba 2 mm, Bhuntar 1.6 mm, while Dehra Gopipur, Una, and Palampur each received 1.4 mm.
Shimla and nearby areas such as Kufri and Fagu also received relief from the intense heat as a strong thunderstorm with heavy rain hit the region on Friday morning. This led to a drop in temperatures. The sky remained cloudy after the storm, with occasional sunshine.
Shimla has been facing unusually hot weather, with maximum temperatures reaching 30.5 degrees Celsius, about five degrees above normal. The minimum temperature has been around 20 degrees Celsius.
The recent snowfall in Rohtang and adjoining areas has benefited the hotel industry, attracting tourists to Kullu and Manali for snow experiences in May.
While the snowfall and rain have brought relief to the tourism and allied industries, fruit growers have expressed concern, as rain and hailstorms during this season can damage crops.
According to the local MeT station, light to moderate rain or snow is likely at many places in the state on May 22. A few places may also see it on May 23, while isolated areas may receive rain or snow on May 24 and 25.
The MeT station said minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to fall by 2 to 4 degrees and 3 to 6 degrees respectively in the next 24 hours. After that, temperatures are expected to rise by 2 to 5 degrees over the next 3–4 days.
Also read: Manali Strays: A lifeline for stray animals in distress
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