Winter Arrives in Himachal Pradesh: Shimla’s First Snowfall Ushers in the Season
A Picturesque Start to the Winter Season in the Capital
After weeks of anticipation, winter has finally arrived in Himachal Pradesh, and the capital, Shimla, marked the occasion with its first snowfall of the season. On Sunday, light snow blanketed the Ridge ground, creating a scenic winter wonderland that delighted both locals and tourists. The snowfall, though mild, provided a stunning start to the winter season in Shimla, with the snow-covered landscape attracting visitors eager to experience the charm of the season.
Snowfall Across High-Altitude Regions and Popular Spots
The high-altitude regions of Himachal Pradesh saw more substantial snowfall, with Rohtang Pass, Baralacha, Koksar, Sissu, Darcha, and Kunzum Pass in Lahaul-Spiti receiving significant accumulations of snow. While the lower areas such as Theog and Kufri experienced light snowfall, it was enough to draw visitors to these popular tourist spots. Additionally, light drizzle was reported in parts of Kullu and Bilaspur, enhancing the winter atmosphere across the state.
Cold Wave Sweeps the State as Temperatures Plummet
The onset of winter brought a sharp drop in temperatures across Himachal Pradesh. Tabo in Lahaul-Spiti recorded the season’s lowest temperature so far at minus 13.1°C. Narkanda, Manali, and Solan all saw temperatures nearing zero, while Shimla experienced a biting chill due to icy winds. The cold was particularly noticeable in Theog, where light snowfall added to the wintery charm, with temperatures approaching freezing. Kufri also saw light snow, causing excitement among tourists who flocked to the area for a glimpse of the snow.
Traffic Disruptions Due to Heavy Snowfall
The heavy snowfall in Lahaul-Spiti caused disruptions to traffic, especially near the Atal Tunnel and Sissu, where slippery roads led to the stranding of around 100 tourists. Authorities responded quickly, rescuing the stranded tourists and advising others to plan their journeys carefully, considering the unpredictable weather conditions. Superintendent of Police Mayank Chaudhary emphasized the need for caution, urging travelers to stay updated on weather forecasts before embarking on trips.
Snowfall in Tribal Regions and Chilly Conditions Across the State
Tribal regions of Himachal Pradesh also saw significant snowfall. Sach Pass in Pangi recorded 30 cm of snow, while areas in Chamba district, including Hudan Bhatori, Sural Bhatori, Chask Bhatori, and Thandal, reported up to 15 cm of snow. Other areas, such as Bharmour’s Kugati, Mani Mahesh, and Chaubia, received lighter snow, with about 6 cm of accumulation. The weather in these regions is expected to remain cold and snowy in the coming days, adding to the winter experience in Himachal Pradesh.
Weather Forecast and Alerts
The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has predicted light rain and snowfall in some areas on Monday, with more precipitation expected in middle and high mountain regions on December 10. A yellow alert for dense fog has been issued for areas near reservoirs in Mandi and Bilaspur on December 10 and 11. However, from December 11 to 14, the weather is expected to clear, providing a brief respite from the snow and cold, though chilly conditions will persist across the state.
A Boost for Tourism Amid Winter’s Arrival
Shimla’s first snowfall of the season has brought joy to both tourists and locals, enhancing the winter tourism experience in Himachal Pradesh. The arrival of winter has transformed the landscape, making it a perfect time for travelers to enjoy the scenic beauty of the state. However, authorities have urged caution due to slippery roads and cold winds, ensuring that visitors remain safe while enjoying the winter magic that Himachal Pradesh offers.
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