The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla , witnessed a notable disruptions in daily life as the tribal areas and elevated terrains experienced the first considerable snowfall of the year. The snowfall, commencing on Tuesday night and continuing intermittently, is expected to persist, leading the local Meteorological Office to issue an orange warning for substantial snow and rains in isolated places on January 31 and February 1.
Updates on rain spell
While speaking with True to Life on 1st February, along with respect to Head Surrender Paul of Meteorological department of Himachal Pradesh , the scientist ‘C’ Forecasting Officer Sandeep Kumar Sharma shared the recent foresting updates quote, “ The Solang, Himachal Pradesh witnessed the 2 to 3 cm snow accumulation this morning at 11 am lasted till 1:30pm .”
The first heavy snowfall of the year, experienced by the tribal areas of Himachal Pradesh has proven to be a road of both gains and loss for the Northern India.
The initial substantial snowfall of the year, leading to occasional Thunderstorm/Lightning in low hills/plains and Gusty wind conditions likely at isolated places in mid and high hill areas/district during the period.
The forecast Scientist Sandeep Sharma further declared, “MeT office has issued an orange warning for heavy snow and rains at isolated places in five districts—Shimla, Kullu, Chamba, Kinnaur, and Lahaul and Spiti—on January 31 and February 1. ”
Impact and Advisory
Advisories to the local public and tourists by MET Head Scientist Sandeep Kumar through truetolife,
“The weather impact can be indecisive and it is expected by the citizens to follow and be safe by reading the issued local precautions released by the MET department of Himachal Pradesh.”
It follows,
Disruptions of essential services viz. water and electricity, communications and related services.
Visibility Conditions very likely to decrease creating difficulty to commute.
Disruption of traffic due to heavy snowfall in mid and high hills.
Agro-met advisories-
Keep the livestock indoors due to low temperature, Make adequate arrangements for keeping them warm.
In case of low temperature, make adequate arrangements for artificial lighting and heating for animals.
Since the temperature is expected to drop further, give winter packing to the bee colonies.
Advise to give the winter packing immediately to colonies and Give artificial food to honey bees as there is scarcity of flowers during these days
Actions Suggested-
1.Follow any traffic advisories that are issued in this regard.
Follow the advisories and guidelines issued by the concerned departments.
Check for traffic congestion on your route before leaving for your destination
Precautions for tourists-
As officer Sandeep Kumar further advices for impact on tourism and farming , he suggests, “With the current season being winter, there will be numerous attraction of tourism in impacted places like Kullu, Shimla for trekking and road trips , such locations experiencing heavy snowfall, tourists encounter various risks due to the challenging weather conditions.”
“The accumulation of snow on roads and sidewalks can lead to slippery surfaces, increasing the likelihood of slips and falls. Additionally, heavy snowfall may result in reduced visibility, making navigation difficult for tourists.” He continued.
“It is crucial for tourists to stay informed about weather conditions, follow safety guidelines.” The officer lastly suggested through truetolife media to all the citizens.
Article by Sanjana Shelar from Mumbai for Truetolife.