Shimla, Feb 25 (UNI) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a high-priority Orange Alert for February 27 and 28, warning of heavy to very heavy snowfall and rainfall across Himachal Pradesh, while a Yellow Alert has been sounded for February 25 and 26.
A Western Disturbance approaching from the north of Iran, along with moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea, will lead to widespread rain and snowfall across the state, particularly affecting Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Kangra, Chamba, Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, and Sirmaur.
The impact of this weather system is expected to last from the midnight of February 25 until noon on March 1, 2025, with the most severe disruptions anticipated on February 27 and 28 due to isolated heavy to very heavy precipitation.
The Orange Alert for February 27 and 28 indicates severe snowfall and rainfall that could block roads, restrict movement, and increase the risk of accidents due to skidding vehicles on slippery highways.
Major highways and internal roads leading to Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and parts of Kullu, Mandi, and Chamba may face complete or partial closures due to snow accumulation and potential landslides.
Low visibility and falling temperatures could make driving even more dangerous, especially in high-altitude regions. Apart from vehicular disruptions, power and communication networks may be severely impacted due to heavy snowfall bringing down electricity lines, causing blackouts and mobile network failures in remote areas.
Tourist destinations such as Kufri, Narkanda, Manali, Solang Valley, Dalhousie, and Sissu will likely receive significant snowfall, affecting tourist movement and activities.
The Yellow Alert for February 25 and 26 suggests a gradual intensification of the weather system, with light to moderate snowfall in higher reaches and rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in lower hills and plains.
While this initial phase may not cause severe damage, isolated heavy rain and snow spells may still lead to temporary roadblocks, localised waterlogging, and disruptions in essential services. Thunderstorms and lightning could also pose a risk to public safety, requiring extra caution in open spaces and near water bodies.
The cold wave conditions associated with this spell are expected to bring a significant drop in temperatures, particularly on February 27 and 28, when minimum temperatures are likely to rise by 4-5°C in some areas, while maximum temperatures may drop by 5-7°C in others.
The increased chill could lead to health risks such as hypothermia and frostbite, especially for vulnerable populations including the elderly, children, and outdoor workers. Authorities have advised limiting outdoor exposure, wearing warm clothing, and ensuring proper heating arrangements at home.
To minimise risks during the Orange Alert period, authorities advise avoiding unnecessary travel, stocking up on essential supplies, and closely following government advisories.
Motorists are advised to use snow chains where necessary, drive at reduced speeds, and avoid travelling at night in snow-prone areas. People in low-lying areas should stay away from riverbanks and landslide-prone zones, while farmers are urged to take precautions to protect standing crops from excessive moisture and cold damage.
Despite the expected disruptions, this long-awaited spell of precipitation brings significant relief to the state, which has been struggling with a prolonged dry spell and drought-like conditions.
January saw a 94% rainfall deficit, severely affecting Rabi crops, off-season vegetables, and fruit orchards, including apples, cherries, and stone fruits. The fresh snowfall and rain will help recharge groundwater, improve soil moisture, and restore drinking water supplies to major towns.
Additionally, hydropower generation, which had been affected by low water levels, is expected to receive a much-needed boost. This wet spell, while temporarily inconvenient, will play a crucial role in stabilising agricultural yields, improving water availability, and supporting the overall environmental balance in the region.
Authorities urge the public to stay alert, follow safety measures, and make the best of this much-needed precipitation for long-term water and agricultural benefits.
UNI ML ARN