Himachal Pradesh is currently witnessing heavy snowfall marking a cold spell in the region. A thick layer of snow has covered several hill stations. This has attracted record number of tourists in the region. However, the heavy snowfall has also caused traffic disruptions, roadblocks, and strain on local infrastructure, making it challenging for both tourists and residents to navigate the area.

On Thursday, a heavy blanket of snow enveloped Lahaul and Spiti, with temperatures in the region continuing to drop, signaling the onset of a cold spell. Residents have described challenges of living in such extreme weather conditions.

Lahaul And Spiti Residents Report Problem

Speaking to ANI, a resident stated, “The evenings are extremely cold, while mornings are sunny but still chilly. Life here is tough, and we have to wear multiple layers of clothing to stay warm.”

Another resident added, “It’s cold, and the snowfall has been relentless. Even simple tasks like washing clothes have become a struggle. It’s hard to cope with such low temperatures.”

Locals Face Challenges In Shimla

Earlier, a video went viral on internet, where a vehicle can be seen facing difficulties while driving on icy road in Shimla. The video featured a car, white Toyota sedan slipping dangerously on the road covered with snow.

Shailesh Khan, a local worker said, “The weather in Shimla has been extremely poor for the past two days, making work very challenging. Delivering cylinders has become a daunting task due to the continuous rain and freezing cold. The cold is unbearable, making our work harder.”

Pradeep, another worker who has been living in Shimla for the past 4-5 years, also shared his challenges. “Ours is an emergency service, so we have to work regardless of the weather. Since yesterday, the rain has been heavy, and the conditions are harsh. To ensure there’s no shortage of cylinders for people, we have to deliver them despite the rain and cold,” he added.

Notably, Higher-altitude areas, including Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, Kullu, Chamba, and Dalhousie, have plunged into sub-zero temperatures.

Amid these challenging conditions, the Met Department of Shimla has issued a yellow alert for January 4-6. It has issued warning of thunderstorms, light rainfall, and squalls in several regions of Himachal Pradesh. Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, Shimla, Kangra, Mandi and Chamba are expected to be affected by these weather conditions.

In the higher mountain regions, temperatures range from 8°C in Shimla to 6°C in Chamba, 3°C in Kullu, and -3°C in Kalpa. Several areas, including Samdho, Rickangpio, Kalpa, Kukumseri, and Tabo, have seen temperatures fall below freezing, with Tabo experiencing the coldest at -16.7°C.

Also Read: IMD Weather Alert: Dense Fog And Cold Wave Grip North India, Rainfall Expected In Jammu-Kashmir