Himachal Pradesh Weather Update: Snowfall, Thunderstorms Disrupt Normal Life Across the State

Shimla, April 19 — Weather conditions across Himachal Pradesh have taken a dramatic turn following the activation of a fresh western disturbance. Several districts witnessed overnight rainfall, thunderstorms, and fresh snowfall in higher altitudes, significantly dropping temperatures and prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an orange alert for multiple regions.

Snowfall Returns to Lahaul-Spiti and High-Altitude Passes

The tribal district of Lahaul-Spiti reported light snowfall and rain throughout Friday night. Popular mountain passes like Rohtang, Shinkula, Baralacha, Kunzum La, and Hanuman Tibba received fresh snow. Temperatures in Keylong, the district headquarters, dipped close to freezing at 1°C, signaling a return of winter chill in the region.

Despite snowfall, vehicle movement remained normal through the Shinkula Pass. Other notable peaks, including Lady of Keylong and Neelkanth, were also blanketed with snow.

Widespread Rain, Storms Across Tourist Hubs

Tourist destinations Manali and Kullu experienced intermittent rain, while Shimla remained cloudy. Other affected districts include Chamba, Mandi, Kinnaur, Solan, Sirmaur, and Kangra, which recorded heavy rain and gusty winds. Shimla’s nearby hill station Kufri recorded wind speeds of up to 46 km/h.

The IMD has warned of thunderstorms with wind speeds up to 60 km/h, accompanied by lightning and hailstorms, especially in mid and low hills. An orange alert is in effect for April 19, while a yellow alert has been issued for Sunday, April 20.

Meteorological Advisory and Forecast

The IMD has advised residents to avoid outdoor activities, especially in open areas, and to seek shelter during stormy conditions. For Lahaul-Spiti, heavy snowfall is expected to continue until the morning of April 21. Districts such as Chamba, Kullu, Mandi, and Kangra are likely to experience intense rain and hail through the weekend.

Northern parts of Chamba and Kullu may face isolated heavy rainfall tonight. Meanwhile, Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Kinnaur have been put on high alert for lightning and wind gusts reaching 50 km/h between Saturday morning and Sunday afternoon.

Temperature Update and Outlook

Here are some notable temperature readings recorded on Saturday:

• Shimla: 15.6°C

• Kufri: 12.7°C

• Keylong: 1°C

• Kalpa: 6.9°C

• Una: 16.9°C

• Sundernagar: 18.5°C

• Solan & Palampur: 15°C

The IMD predicts continued unstable weather through April 21 and 22, with no further alerts as of now. However, from April 23, conditions are expected to improve, with a rapid increase in temperatures and possible heatwave warnings for the plains between April 23 and 25.