Shimla, April 17: A powerful storm accompanied by strong winds and light rainfall swept through parts of Himachal Pradesh late Wednesday night, causing widespread disruption in the state capital and beyond. In Shimla, the storm led to the uprooting of numerous trees, resulting in blocked roads and significant inconvenience to residents.
Among the worst-hit areas was the road connecting Richmond and Jakhoo, which was rendered completely inaccessible due to fallen trees. Teams from the Forest Department were deployed early Thursday morning to clear debris and restore vehicular movement.
“We began work early in the morning and are currently clearing roads near the US Club and Richmond. The storm hit around 11:50 p.m. and brought down trees in several areas,” said Mohammad Usuf, a labourer involved in the clearance operation.
The adverse weather also affected other parts of the region. Punjab’s Amritsar and Mohali reported gusty winds and rainfall, while the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast intermittent showers and cloudy skies for both Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.
Fresh Western Disturbance to Bring More Rain
The IMD has warned of a fresh and active Western Disturbance expected to influence Himachal Pradesh from April 18 to April 21. This system is likely to bring light to moderate rainfall across the state, with heavy precipitation anticipated in higher-altitude regions.
“The weather will remain largely clear for the next 48 hours. However, a very active Western Disturbance is expected from the afternoon of April 18. Intermittent rainfall is likely in most parts of the state,” said Shobhit Katiyar, Senior Scientist at the IMD Centre in Shimla.
He added that isolated light rain could occur in Chamba and Kangra districts on Thursday, but the main spell of rainfall would begin from April 18. The IMD has issued an orange alert for Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi districts for April 18 and 19, warning of heavy rain in the range of 6 to 12 cm in some areas.
As preparations begin for the incoming weather system, authorities have advised residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel in vulnerable regions. Efforts are ongoing to restore normalcy in the aftermath of Wednesday night’s storm.
About The Author
