SHIMLA: Normal life in Himachal Pradesh may face fresh disruption as another active western disturbance is set to bring widespread rain and snowfall from January 26, with the heaviest spell expected on January 27, the Meteorological Centre Shimla said on Saturday .
The IMD has warned of heavy rain and snow at isolated places, particularly in high and middle hill districts, raising the risk of road blockades, power outages and traffic disruptions in snowbound areas. Districts like Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Kangra, Chamba, Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti are likely to be impacted by snow, thunderstorms, gusty winds and hail .
Avalanche threat has also increased sharply in Lahaul-Spiti, Bharmour area of Chamba district and Kinnaur, as the fresh spell of snowfall is expected to settle over an icy layer of old snow, a condition known to trigger avalanches, especially on steep slopes and high passes. Authorities have advised locals, shepherds and travellers to avoid venturing into avalanche-prone zones and remain alert during the peak snowfall period.
During the past 24 hours, light snow was reported at Jot (7 cm) and Keylong (1 cm), while strong winds lashed higher reaches, with Narkanda recording gusts of up to 57 kmph. Cold day conditions prevailed in Manali, Hamirpur, Kangra and Mandi, while Una and Bilaspur experienced cold wave conditions .
The weather office cautioned that the upcoming spell could hit apple-growing belts, affect tourist movement, and lead to temporary suspension of traffic on higher roads, including interior tribal routes. Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to limit travel, follow district advisories and stay away from snow-laden slopes.
After a brief dry phase on January 30, another western disturbance is likely to affect the western Himalayan region from the night of January 30, indicating that winter conditions will persist in the higher Himalayas .
