Cold wave intensifies in Himachal Pradesh as Shimla and higher reaches get fresh snowfall

Cold wave intensifies in Himachal Pradesh as higher reaches, Shimla receive fresh snowfall (Image: PTI)

A cold wave continues to sweep through Himachal Pradesh, with higher reaches and tribal areas receiving another spell of light to moderate snow, according to the meteorological department.

Shimla, the state capital, recorded 1.6 cm of snow since Wednesday night, while Dalhousie, Manali, and areas like Solang Nallah and Atal Tunnel also saw snow on January 16, 2025. The snowfall continued in Narkanda and Kufri, with National Highway 5 (old Hindustan Tibet road) closed for traffic near Narkanda. Travelers have been diverted through the Shimla-Sunni-Luhri road.

Due to the ongoing snow, the Lahaul and Spiti administration has issued an advisory urging travelers to avoid unnecessary journeys. Several roads have been shut, including routes to Darcha, Sarchu, Keylong, Koksar, and Manali via Rohtang, with efforts underway to clear them.

Snowfall has varied across the region, with Bharmaur in Chamba receiving the highest at 15.3 cm, followed by other areas like Gondla (12 cm) and Koksar (8.8 cm). In addition, some parts of the state experienced intermittent rains, with Tinder recording the highest rainfall at 15 mm.

The region is also experiencing moderate fog in Sundernagar and shallow fog in Mandi, while temperatures have dipped by 3-4°C. Tabo, in Lahaul and Spiti, was the coldest at -11.6°C, followed by Kukumseri and Keylong with temperatures below freezing.

Popular hill stations like Narkanda, Kufri, Dalhousie, Manali, and Shimla are experiencing sub-zero temperatures, with Narkanda recording a low of -1.5°C, Kufri at -1.4°C, and Shimla at 1.6°C.

The Meteorological office has issued a yellow warning for cold waves in lower and plain areas on Thursday and has forecasted further rain and snow in the mid and higher hills over the next couple of days.

In addition to the chilly temperatures, water pipes are freezing in many areas, while dense fog envelops the lower hills. For farmers, the snowfall is a boon as it acts as “white manure” for the apple crop, ensuring a quality harvest. It also adds to the charm of the region, drawing more tourists to experience the winter wonderland.

(With inputs from agencies)