Himachal Pradesh Faces Havoc from Thunderstorms and Hailstorm; Weather Alerts Issued for Next Two Days

April 17, 2025 — Shimla, India — A sudden spell of thunderstorms, strong winds, and hailstorms wreaked havoc across several districts of Himachal Pradesh late Wednesday night, causing significant damage to homes, crops, and infrastructure. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has now issued weather alerts for the next two days, warning residents to remain cautious.

Winds Uproot Trees, Disrupt Power and Roads

Districts including Shimla, Kangra, Una, and Hamirpur were hit hardest by wind gusts reaching 80 km/h, leading to:

• Trees being uprooted and falling on roads, disrupting traffic

• Windows shattered and tin rooftops blown off in residential areas

• Power outages in multiple areas of Una and Kangra due to fallen electric poles

Key highways such as the Mandi-Pathankot and Matour-Shimla roads were temporarily blocked due to debris and fallen trees, forcing drivers to take alternate routes.

Hailstorm Devastates Agriculture and Orchards

The storm also brought heavy rain and hail, damaging:

• Wheat crops, both standing and harvested

• Apple blossoms and mango buds, raising concerns among orchardists

Farmers across the state are now assessing extensive crop damage, particularly in the mid-hills and plains where harvesting was in full swing.

Snowfall in Higher Reaches, Cold Conditions Return

In higher-altitude areas of Lahaul Valley, fresh snowfall was reported in:

• Rohtang Pass

• Baralacha La

• Shinkula Pass

This led to a noticeable drop in temperature, offering temporary relief from rising heat, but increasing travel difficulties in mountainous terrain.

Orange and Yellow Alerts for Multiple Districts

The IMD has issued:

• Orange alert for April 18 and 19 in Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Lahaul-Spiti, and Shimla

• Yellow alert for Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Una, Solan, Sirmaur, and Kinnaur

Forecasts predict:

• Strong winds (40–50 km/h)

• Thunderstorms and lightning

• Possibility of more hailstorms

On April 20, weather disruptions may persist in isolated regions.

IMD Advisory to Citizens

The Shimla Meteorological Center has urged residents to:

• Avoid outdoor travel during storms

• Refrain from standing under trees or open fields during lightning

• Check weather updates before traveling, especially in hilly regions

Though the cooler weather brings a short respite from heat, the impact on agriculture remains a pressing concern.