Recent weather disturbances have caused significant disruption in Himachal Pradesh, with 104 roads and three national highways blocked due to heavy snowfall and rain. The state emergency operation centre reported that the affected areas include Lahaul and Spiti, Kullu, Chamba, and Kangra, with numerous road closures and infrastructure damage, including a washed-away bridge in Kangra.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms with lightning at isolated places on April 22 and 23 across various parts of Himachal Pradesh. This alert indicates potentially severe weather conditions persisting for several days, which could lead to further disruptions in daily activities.
Additionally, IMD’s forecast for the upcoming southwest monsoon season predicts above-normal rainfall across the country. The anticipated rainfall, expected to be around 106 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA), comes amidst moderate El Nino conditions over the equatorial Pacific region. However, projections suggest a transition to neutral El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions early in the monsoon season.
IMD’s observations highlight deviations in snow cover extent in the northern hemisphere during the past three months, potentially influencing weather patterns, including the upcoming monsoon season. These developments underscore the need for heightened preparedness and vigilance to mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions in Himachal Pradesh.
Sources By Agencies