Overview
- Fresh snowfall was recorded on high peaks in the Dhauladhar range and at Shinku La Pass while light to moderate rain hit mid and lower hills, producing daytime temperatures well below normal on Sunday.
- The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow warning and said showers will continue across the state until Oct 17 with snowfall likely in higher reaches between Oct 12 and Oct 16.
- IMD senior scientist Sandeep Kumar Sharma said the next western disturbance is expected to intensify from late evening on Oct 13 and remain active through Oct 15 with rain, thunderstorms and widespread snow on Oct 14–15.
- Authorities have already closed high-altitude routes to two-wheelers and banned 4×2 vehicles on the Darcha–Baralacha La and Shinku La stretches, and Lahaul-Spiti police rescued trapped bikers and escorted about 15–20 vehicles to safety.
- Residents and tourists are being urged to avoid unnecessary travel to high reaches, carry snow chains or use 4×4 vehicles if travel is essential, and expect conditions to improve from Oct 16 with dry weather returning from Oct 17.