Shimla, Feb 5 – Fresh snowfall in higher reaches and widespread rain in lower areas have brought relief to Himachal Pradesh after a prolonged dry spell. Lahaul Valley’s Shashin received over 1.5 feet of snow, while Kothi near Manali recorded more than a foot. Snowfall was also reported in Churdhar, Kupar (Shimla), and Bharmaur (Chamba).
All the roads leading from Manali including Atal tunnel to Lahaul are blocked due to snow.
Meanwhile, rain lashed various parts of Shimla, Mandi, and Kullu districts, benefiting farmers and boosting hydropower generation.
The Meteorological Centre, Shimla, has warned of dense fog and cold wave conditions in Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Mandi for the next 12 hours.
Thunderstorms and lightning are likely in parts of Mandi, Shimla, Kangra, and Palampur.
Minimum temperatures are expected to drop by 2-3°C, while maximum temperatures may decline slightly before rising again over the next few days.
A fresh Western Disturbance is expected to impact the region from February 8, bringing isolated rain and snow. Dry weather is predicted for most of the state from February 6 onwards.