Intense snowfall continues in Himachal’s upper reaches, holiday for schools in Lahaul, Pangi

Due to severe weather, the government has declared holidays for schools in the Lahaul and Pangi areas for the next two days.

Meanwhile, a mild-density avalanche occurred in Dhundi, along the Manali-Keylong route, on Wednesday night. No casualties have been reported, said the police.

The forecast from India Meteorological Department (IMD) includes light to moderate rain and snowfall in most areas, with possibilities of heavy to very heavy rainfall and snowfall in some places.

Shimla and surrounding areas including Kufri, Nauradhar, and Solan have experienced rainfall for the past two days, Met officials said. Keylong in Lahaul & Spiti received a maximum snowfall of 20 cm, followed by Khadrala in Shimla district where 12 cm snowfall was recorded, and Kukumseri in Lahaul & Spiti which received 9.6 cm snowfall. Hansa village in Spiti Valley received a snowfall of 8 cm, followed by 3.4 cm snowfall at Kalpa in Kinnaur, IMD stated.

Due to adverse weather conditions, traffic has been disrupted on two national highways – NH-3 between Keylong and Manali, and NH-305 through the Jalori Pass – and along Atal Tunnel. Vehicle movement on over 160 roads across the state has also been affected.

Over 90 per cent of villages in Lahaul are without electricity due to over one-and-a half feet of snow.

IMD predicted light rain and snow in a few areas on March 1 and 4, while isolated light showers on March 2 and 5. On March 3, light to moderate rain and snowfall may occur in parts of the state, it said.