Shimla: Moderate to heavy snowfall in
many parts of Himachal Pradesh, including Shimla, has brought
down mercury to sub-zero levels and increased the threat of
avalanches in higher reaches of the state.
The `Queen of Hills` Shimla, which received 5 cm of
fresh snow, settled at 0.6 deg C. Higher areas of the state
capital shivered under sub-zero temperatures, which resulted
in freezing of water in supply pipes.
Winter sports enthusiasts were in for a treat as
Solang Ski slopes received 40 to 70 cm of snowfall, while
famous tourist resort Manali experienced 35 cm of snowfall.
The Jakoo peek and adjoining resorts of Kufri and Fagu
were covered by 10 to 15 cm of fresh snow. Pre-dawn
temperature hovered around freezing point in these regions.
Higher reaches of the state continued to experience
snowfall for the sixth day, with Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti
district receiving 20 cm of white flakes. Kalpa in nearby
Kinnaur district was covered under 50 cm thick white blanket.
The authorities have cautioned people against
avalanche and advised them not to venture out during the day.
The Dhauladhar range in Kangra and other mountain
passes also received fresh snow.
Mid and lower hills of the state received widespread
rainfall with Jogindernagar in Mandi district being the
wettest place, receiving 23 mm of rain.
Other places that received rains were Sunni (20 mm),
Kheri (16 mm), Sandhol (15 mm), Sundernagar (14.2 mm),
Seobagh (14 mm), Paonta Sahib (13mm), Bhuntar (12.5 mm),
Karsog (12 mm) and Solan (11.8 mm).
The minimum temperature plummeted to 1.5 deg C in
Solan, 2.7 deg C in Dharamsala , 3.4 deg C in Bhuntar and 5.2
deg C in Nahan and Sundernagar.
Weathermen have forecast more snow and rains across
the state during next three days. They have also predicted two
to three deg fall in night temperatures.
PTI
