Early snowfall has transformed the scenic states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand into breathtaking winter wonderlands, but it has also brought travel disruptions, blocked roads, and plunging temperatures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow weather alert for several hill districts, warning residents and tourists to stay cautious.

🏔️ Heavy Snow Turns Hemkund Sahib Into a Snow-Covered Pilgrimage Site

In Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, the sacred Sikh pilgrimage site Hemkund Sahib was blanketed with nearly 2.5 feet of snow after continuous snowfall on Monday and Tuesday.

Despite the freezing temperatures and snow-filled pathways, devotees continued their journey with faith and determination. Authorities have started preparations to close the shrine for the season, as only one day of pilgrimage remains.

The snow has enhanced the natural beauty of the area, but the trek has become more challenging due to slippery paths and biting cold.

🌨️ Widespread Snowfall in Himachal Pradesh’s High-Altitude Areas

In Himachal Pradesh, tribal regions and high-altitude districts witnessed intense snowfall, turning valleys into white landscapes. The Lahaul–Spiti district experienced continuous snowfall for three straight days, with thick layers of snow covering every corner.

• Keylong recorded a minimum temperature of -0.5°C,

• Kukumseri dropped to -0.3°C,

• Higher regions reported temperatures between -2°C and -5°C.

The Atal Tunnel’s north portal, along with Koksar, Sissu, and Darcha, received between six inches to 1.5 feet of snow. Villages like Yoche, Gondhla, and Sissu were also heavily covered.

🚧 Transport Disrupted, Roads Blocked, and Power Cut

The unusually early October snowfall has led to transport blockages, electricity outages, and disconnected remote villages. Locals are now relying on wood fires and heaters to keep warm.

The Manali-Leh highway has been closed, with vehicles to Ladakh stopped at Darcha. Officials have confirmed the temporary suspension of traffic due to dangerous road conditions.

🌡️ Rain and Thunderstorms in Lower Hills and Delhi-NCR

While upper regions saw snow, moderate to heavy rain lashed the lower and middle hills.

• Naina Devi recorded 132.6 mm rainfall,

• Solan got 119.6 mm,

• Other regions like Berthin, Pachhad, and Kasauli received significant rain.

Thunderstorms were reported from Kangra, Palampur, Sundernagar, Shimla, and other towns, while gusty winds swept through Narkanda, Kufri, and Tabo.

In Delhi-NCR, sudden evening showers on Tuesday disrupted air traffic, leading to the diversion of at least 15 flights. The Delhi Airport issued a weather advisory, warning of possible flight delays due to rain and thunderstorms.

🍎 Apple Growers Suffer Losses Due to Untimely Snowfall

In Pangi Valley, Chamba, heavy snowfall of up to 26 cm cut off the area from the rest of the state. Sach Pass Road remains closed, while landslides near Tandi have blocked the Kullu–Manali route.

Apple farmers have suffered major losses as unharvested apples were damaged by the sudden snowfall and transport was halted due to road closures.

📢 Yellow Alert Issued by IMD

The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued a yellow weather alert for Kullu, Lahaul–Spiti, Chamba, and Kangra, forecasting heavy rain, snowfall, and strong winds in the coming days.