Rohtang, 23 December 2024: Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a dramatic weather change, with snowfall starting at high-altitude peaks near Rohtang early on Monday. Fresh snow has accumulated up to 10 cm in the Rohtang area, while snowfall has also reached the state capital, Shimla.
As a result, both Kullu and Lahaul administrations have issued weather warnings due to slippery roads and the changing weather conditions.
The snow has sparked excitement among tourists who flock to the state seeking winter’s magic. Large crowds are now heading towards Kullu-Manali to celebrate Christmas and New Year, and on Sunday, over 11,000 vehicles crossed the Atal Tunnel Rohtang. However, authorities have advised tourists to avoid venturing into snow-covered areas to ensure their safety.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts light snow and rain in several parts of Himachal today, including Shimla and its surrounding areas. There will be another spell of snowfall on December 27, with more rain and snow likely on December 28 due to a western disturbance.
The cold weather is expected to persist over the next six days, with dense fog alert issued for the plains on December 24-25. Several areas, including Mandi, Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, and Chamba, have recorded temperatures well below zero.
Tabo recorded a chilling minus 10.2°C on Monday. The ongoing fog is severely impacting daily life in Una, Hamirpur, and Bilaspur, creating harsh, bitterly cold conditions throughout the state.
