Himachal Pradesh Issues Orange Alert for Severe Weather Conditions

Severe Weather Alert in Himachal Pradesh

Shimla:
The Meteorological Department of Himachal Pradesh has announced an orange alert for rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h in five districts, including Shimla, Sirmaur, Mandi, Bilaspur, and Solan, set for Friday (May 2, 2025).

This alert follows a broader yellow warning issued for most of the state, signaling adverse weather conditions such as thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds expected to last until May 8.

Impact of Hailstorms and Winds on Agriculture

Recent weather events resulted in hailstorms affecting various regions, notably Jubbal in Shimla district, where apple orchards experienced significant damage.
Rainfall was widespread, with Solan recording 39 mm, Ghaghas 33.8 mm, and Bilaspur 26 mm, while hail was also noted in Mandi, Kullu, Dharamshala, and other locations.

The unanticipated rain has adversely impacted fruit crops, flowering plants, and wheat harvesting. Farmers reported damage to apple blossoms, stone fruits, peas, and standing wheat crops.

Conversely, many farmers viewed the rainfall as beneficial, particularly in drought-affected areas. A farmer from Solan remarked, “The rain is a blessing for vegetables and pulses.”

Drop in Temperatures and Return of Cold Conditions

The rainfall has led to a notable decrease in temperatures across the state. Areas like Shimla, Solan, Mandi, and Nahan recorded maximum temperatures below normal, with Chamba experiencing a drop of 7.2°C, settling at 29.2°C.

Popular tourist destinations such as Narkanda and Kufri also saw their daytime temperatures decrease by 4.7°C and 4°C, respectively. Minimum temperatures have fallen by 2-5°C in various regions, prompting residents to don warm clothing once again.

Fresh snowfall was reported in high-altitude passes like Rohtang, while dense fog and intermittent rain kept many low and mid-hill towns under a cold spell.

The Shimla Meteorological Centre forecasts that the adverse weather will persist, with moderate to heavy rainfall anticipated on May 5 and 6, particularly in mid and lower hill areas. Wind speeds may reach 50-60 km/h, especially during thunderstorms.

A yellow alert has been issued for Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Solan, Sirmaur, and Shimla, with isolated hailstorm activity possible in Shimla and Sirmaur.