SHIMLA, Mar 18: SHIMLA, Mar 18: Himachal Pradesh is heading into a short but intense spell of volatile weather between March 18 and March 20, with the Meteorological Centre, Shimla warning of thunderstorms, gusty winds and isolated hailstorms across several districts—impacting both farm operations and travel plans.
The past 24 hours have already shown contrasting conditions—Paonta Sahib in Sirmaur district recorded a high of 31°C, while Keylong, Kukumseri and other parts of Lahaul-Spiti saw fresh snowfall, underlining the shifting weather dynamics.
March 18–20: Stormy window across districts
The active weather phase from March 18 to March 20 is likely to impact:
Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Kangra and Chamba districts with thunderstorms and lightning
Sirmaur, Solan, Bilaspur and Una with gusty winds (40–60 kmph) and scattered rain
Higher reaches of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur and upper Kullu/Chamba with rain and snowfall, especially on March 19 and 20
Hailstorm risk is highest on March 18 and 19, particularly in mid and lower hill districts.
From March 21 onwards, the weather is expected to gradually turn dry and stable.
Farmers’ advisory: location-specific strategy
With orchards entering a sensitive stage, growers are being advised to act according to altitude:
High-altitude مناطق (above 7,000 ft) — places like Rohru, Narkanda, Kalpa, Keylong:
Avoid installing anti-hail nets for now. Forecast snowfall between March 19–20 can lead to snow accumulation on nets, causing collapse and damage. A wait-and-watch approach till March 21 is recommended.
Mid and lower belts — areas like Theog, Kotkhai, Solan, Sundernagar, Palampur:
Farmers should install anti-hail nets immediately, as hailstorms are likely on March 18–19, and snow risk is minimal.
Spraying and orchard work should be paused during storm alerts and resumed in clear intervals.
Travel advisory: avoid high passes till March 20
Travellers planning trips between March 18 and March 20 should exercise caution:
Avoid routes towards Atal Tunnel, Rohtang, Jalori Pass, Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti during this period
Expect slippery roads, falling visibility and sudden traffic disruptions in upper areas.
Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala and Solan may see short rain spells and winds but remain largely motorable
From March 21 onward, travel conditions are expected to improve significantly.
With a three-day weather window (March 18–20) set to bring rain, snow and hail across Himachal, timing will be crucial.
Farmers must align orchard operations with altitude-specific risks, while travellers should plan trips around the weather, not against it.
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