Shimla: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant weather warning for the hill state of Himachal Pradesh. While the state celebrates Republic Day today with overcast skies, the real disruption is forecast for tomorrow. An Orange Alert has been sounded for Tuesday, January 27, predicting heavy snowfall in the high hills, intense rainfall in the lower regions, and hazardous travel conditions.
The “Peak” Day: What to Expect on Jan 27
A powerful Western Disturbance is set to unleash its full intensity on Tuesday. The IMD has upgraded its warnings to reflect severe wind and precipitation levels.
- Heavy Snowfall (Orange Alert): Significant snow accumulation is forecast for high-altitude districts, specifically Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, and Kullu. The higher reaches of Shimla and Mandi are also likely to receive substantial snow, which may impact power and communication lines.
- Intense Rain & Hailstorms: While the mid-hills will see heavy rain, a specific Yellow Alert for Hailstorms has been issued for Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Solan. Residents should be prepared for sudden, intense thunder-squalls.
- Severe Wind Warning: Contrary to earlier moderate estimates, the IMD warns of high-velocity winds reaching 50-60 kmph, with gusts up to 70 kmph. In the border districts of Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti, sustained winds could create blizzard-like conditions.
- Temperature Plunge: Expect a “Cold Day” on Tuesday as maximum temperatures are predicted to crash by 4°C to 8°C within 24 hours.
- Landslide Risk: Gusty winds combined with rain increase the risk of shooting stones on vulnerable stretches like the Chandigarh-Manali Highway and Shimla-Kinnaur Highway.
The Aftermath: Cold Wave & Fog (Jan 28 Onwards)
As the storm system moves eastward on Wednesday, the state will transition from a “wet” chaos to a “dry” freeze.
- “Deep Freeze” (Cold Wave): As skies clear, minimum temperatures will drop sharply. A Cold Wave is predicted for isolated pockets in Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur, with night temperatures plunging well below -10°C.
- Dense Fog Alert: The plains and low hills—specifically Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Kangra—will likely be engulfed in dense fog. Visibility is expected to drop below 50 meters during morning hours (5:00 AM – 10:00 AM), making highway travel extremely dangerous.
- Black Ice Warning: In the mid-hills (Shimla, Kufri, Dalhousie), freezing night temperatures will lead to ground frost and black ice on roads. Shaded curves will remain slippery well into the morning.
Key Highlights: Tourist Advisory
- Manali-Leh & Atal Tunnel: Avoid travel. Tourists are advised not to venture towards the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel or Sissu on Jan 27 due to the risk of blizzards and road blockades.
- Shimla-Kufri: Expect slippery roads; drive only if absolutely necessary and use snow chains if venturing beyond Dhalli.
- Trekking: All trekking activities in high-altitude zones should be suspended for the next 48 hours.
FAQ: Your Weather Questions Answered
A: There is a high probability. While heaviest snowfall is expected in Kufri and Narkanda, Shimla town is forecast to receive moderate snow. If day temperatures drop sufficiently (forecasted to fall by 4-8°C), rain will turn to snow by evening.
A: No. Driving on Jan 27 is highly risky due to predicted heavy rain, landslides, and wind gusts up to 70 kmph. It is safer to travel after the weather clears on Jan 28.
A: A Yellow Alert for Dense Fog is in place for Jan 28-29. Commuters in Una and Bilaspur should expect near-zero visibility between 5:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
A: Yes. On Jan 28/29, moisture on roads in Shimla, Kufri, and Manali will freeze overnight. Drive with extreme caution in shaded areas.
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