Heavy Snowfall and Rain Disrupts Life in Himachal Pradesh

Chandigarh: Himachal Pradesh has witnessed widespread snowfall and rainfall over the past 24 hours, leading to the closure of over 200 roads and disruptions in power and water supply.

Several areas in Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, and Chamba have been cut off from the rest of the state. In Shimla, National Highway 5 (Hindustan-Tibet Road) near Narkanda remains shut due to slippery conditions caused by heavy snow.

Weather Alerts and Avalanche Warnings

The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for light to moderate snowfall across most of the state, with very heavy snowfall expected in Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti, and the higher reaches of Chamba, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, Kangra, and Kullu’s Manali.

A yellow alert has been issued for more rain and light snowfall in Shimla. Additionally, the risk of avalanches remains high in regions above 2,300 meters altitude, prompting authorities to warn residents against unnecessary travel to high-altitude areas.

Flash Flood Threat and Evacuations in Kullu

A flash flood threat has created panic in Tosh village (Manikaran Valley, Kullu)due to the formation of an artificial lake in Jeera Nallah. Authorities have evacuated residents living downstream to safer locations.

Meanwhile, major routes such as Darcha-Shinkula, Darcha-Sarchu, Koksar-Manali via Rohtang, and Atal Tunnel to Manali remain blocked due to heavy snowfall. Travelers have been advised to avoid these routes.

With snowfall and rain expected to continue, officials urge people to exercise caution and avoid travel to affected areas.