Thunderstorms, hail and rain lash Shimla; fresh snowfall in Kullu, Spiti Heavy thunderstorms, hail and rain battered Shimla and surrounding regions on Sunday, while higher elevations in Kullu and Lahaul and Spiti experienced fresh snowfall. Weather data showed Bhuntar recorded 12 mm of rainfall, followed by Mandi and Manali with 8 mm each. Kufri received 7 mm, Solan 6.4 mm, and Shimla 6 mm. Additional rainfall was reported in Sundernagar (5 mm), Dharamshala (3 mm), and Kangra (2 mm), with Kalpa and Neri receiving 1.8 mm each and Jubberhatti recording 1 mm. Dark convective clouds blanketed the sky throughout the day, reducing visibility in multiple areas. Light snowfall was observed in the upper hills of Manali, including near the Atal Tunnel. Residents navigated the downpours with umbrellas, as seen at the Ridge in Shimla. Over 1,000 vehicles became stranded at the south portal of the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang during the late evening, following disruptions caused by snowfall in Manali’s higher reaches. Officials stated that a police team from Manali arrived at the site to initiate rescue operations, guiding stranded vehicles toward the city. Authorities also requested the Border Road Organisation and other rescue agencies to deploy teams to prevent further vehicle slippage by applying mud and urea to the road. The police urged stranded individuals to remain patient, emphasizing that the rescue efforts were ongoing and that all were safe. Meanwhile, the heat wave affecting plains during holidays is expected to draw more tourists to the snow-covered hills. However, concerns persist regarding potential disruptions in the supply of commercial LPG cylinders.#india_meteorological_department #rohtang_pass #atal_tunnel #shimla #kullu
Atal Tunnel Travel Update: Heavy Snowfall Strands 1,000+ Vehicles in Himachal; 40 Tourists Rescued from Jalori Pass Heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh on March 15 caused significant disruptions, leaving nearly 1,000 vehicles stranded near the southern part of Manali. The sudden weather conditions forced authorities to initiate rescue operations and manage traffic flow as tourists and commuters faced challenges due to the severe weather. Rescue efforts were also underway at multiple locations across the Kullu region, with around 40–50 tourists reported stuck at Jalori Pass. Local police confirmed that traffic was being regulated in phases to ensure safe movement of vehicles. The snowfall was linked to a Western Disturbance, a common winter weather system in the western Himalayas that can still trigger sudden snowstorms even in March. Officials noted that such disturbances contribute to unpredictable weather patterns in the region, complicating travel for those venturing into high-altitude areas. The incident highlights the vulnerability of mountain routes during extreme weather events, prompting authorities to emphasize the importance of preparedness for travelers. Authorities have issued advisories for those planning trips to the Himalayan regions, urging them to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions. Key recommendations include being cautious of icy roads, checking weather forecasts, and reviewing traffic advisories before heading to destinations like Rohtang Pass, Lahaul-Spiti, and the Atal Tunnel. These precautions are critical given the potential for sudden weather changes and the risks associated with high-altitude travel. The Atal Tunnel, a major engineering feat, plays a vital role in connecting Manali to Lahaul-Spiti. Opened in October 2020, the 9.#atal_tunnel #himachal #western_disturbance #rohtang_pass #jalori_pass
