Leh-Manali Highway shut, Himachal Pradesh on yellow alert as severe weather forces closures

In a picturesque turn of events, popular tourist spots in Himachal Pradesh, such as Atal Tunnel, Sissu, Koksar, and the famed Rohtang Pass, were adorned with a fresh layer of snow on Friday. The enchanting scenes drew visitors, marking the onset of winter in the region.

Leh-Manali Highway closed as snowfall hits higher reaches

The Leh-Manali national highway faced a temporary closure due to the recent snowfall in the higher reaches of Kullu and Lahaul and Spiti districts. Officials reported light to moderate snowfall, affecting traffic from Darcha to Sarchu and Koksar to Rohtang Top. The disruption extended to National Highway 505 (Sumdo-Kaza-Gramphu), exacerbating transportation challenges.

Yellow alert issued: snowfall continues across Himachal Pradesh

The meteorological department issued a yellow alert for ten districts in Himachal Pradesh, excluding Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti, signaling ongoing snowfall in higher elevations. Moderate snowfall is anticipated in Kullu, Chamba, Kangra, and Lahaul. Meanwhile, lower regions like Chamba, Kangra, Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Shimla, Solan, Sirmour, Mandi, and Lahaul division may experience light to moderate precipitation, accompanied by thunder, lightning, and gusty winds.

As the winter wonderland unfolds, the region grapples with transportation disruptions, creating both challenges and a visual spectacle for residents and visitors alike.