Shimla, May 25:
The hills of Himachal are bracing for another bout of turbulent weather.
The Meteorological Centre, Shimla, has issued a fresh alert for thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms and gusty winds across many parts of the state over the next seven days.
A yellow warning is in place till May 31, with hailstorm activity expected to peak on May 27 and 28, while heavy rainfall is likely on May 30 and 31.
Rain and Hail Lash Several Districts
On Saturday, many areas including Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, Kangra and Chamba's Pangi region witnessed moderate to heavy rain and hail spells. Shimla city recorded 21 mm rainfall with hail in scattered parts.
Kufri and Mashobra witnessed hail cover during the evening hours.
In Kullu, Banjar and Manikaran valley received sharp showers and hailstones that damaged standing crops and orchards.
Mandi district reported hail in Sundernagar and parts of Seraj valley.
Kalpa in Kinnaur received 13 mm rain, while Reckong Peo saw a sudden dip in temperature after hail activity.
Keylong and Kukumseri in Lahaul registered 7.6°C and 8.4°C respectively, with light rain and strong winds.
Palampur and Baijnath in Kangra experienced brief spells of hail and 22 mm of rainfall.
In Pangi valley of Chamba, locals reported late-evening hail accompanied by lightning and strong gusts.
Western Disturbance Active
This weather volatility is attributed to an active Western Disturbance over North India and a cyclonic circulation over southwest Rajasthan.
These systems are pushing moisture-laden winds into Himachal, triggering storms and sudden drops in temperature.
Lightning, Gusty Winds Advisory
The MeT department has warned of lightning and winds blowing at 40–60 kmph over the next few days, urging people to avoid sheltering under trees and stay indoors during storm activity.
Advisory for Farmers
Farmers have been strongly advised to postpone pesticide sprays, harvesting, and outdoor operations.
Orchards in mid and higher hills could face fresh fruit drop due to hail impact.
Ensure proper drainage in fields to prevent root damage.
Advisory for Tourists
Tourists are advised to check official weather updates before heading to higher altitudes.
Avoid trekking routes during storm alerts.
Authorities may impose temporary restrictions in landslide-prone zones if rainfall increases.
Cold Spell in Upper Hills
A cold spell has returned to high-altitude areas. Shimla recorded a minimum of 12°C, four degrees below normal. Kufri dipped to 9°C. Kukumseri was the coldest at 7.6°C.
Jubbarhatti and Solan also recorded sharp rainfall—23.8 mm and 36.6 mm respectively.
Prepare for Heavy Rain Ahead
Heavy rain is likely on May 30 and 31 in isolated pockets of the state.
Though no red alert has been issued, the State Disaster Management Authority has asked district officials to remain on standby.
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