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Snowfall Transforms Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh into Winter Wonderlands
On Christmas Eve, the higher reaches of Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh experienced fresh snowfall, delighting tourists and locals alike. In Kashmir, areas such as Gurez, Karnah, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam were blanketed in snow, leading to a significant drop in temperatures. Srinagar recorded a low of minus 6.6 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam shivered at minus 7.8 degrees Celsius. The sub-zero temperatures caused water supply lines to freeze and thin ice layers to form on water bodies. The Meteorological Department predicts a further drop in low temperatures over the next several days.
In Himachal Pradesh, popular tourist destinations like Shimla and Manali turned into picturesque snowy landscapes. Shimla received approximately 7 cm of snowfall, attracting a surge of tourists seeking a white Christmas experience. However, the heavy snowfall led to the closure of over 200 roads, including three national highways, disrupting transportation and daily life. The Public Works Department has deployed machinery to clear the snow and restore connectivity. Despite the challenges, the snowfall has boosted local tourism, with hotel occupancy rates in Shimla exceeding 70%.
Rainfall in Delhi and Rajasthan Brings Respite and Challenges
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Meanwhile, parts of Delhi and Rajasthan experienced light to moderate rainfall on Christmas Eve. In Delhi, the evening showers brought a slight relief from pollution levels but also led to traffic snarls in various parts of the city. The maximum temperature was recorded at 20.8 degrees Celsius, slightly above the seasonal average, while the minimum settled at 9.9 degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department has predicted similar weather conditions for the next 24 hours.
In Rajasthan, eastern and western regions received rainfall due to a fresh western disturbance. Hanuman garh reported the highest rainfall at 9 mm. The wet conditions have raised concerns among farmers about the potential impact on standing crops. Authorities have advised residents to stay updated with weather forecasts and take necessary precautions.
Authorities Urge Caution Amidst Adverse Weather Conditions
The recent weather events have prompted authorities to issue advisories for residents and tourists in the affected regions. In Himachal Pradesh, officials have cautioned travelers to adhere to safety guidelines and avoid venturing into high-risk areas prone to avalanches and landslides. Similarly, in Kashmir, people have been advised to stay indoors during peak cold hours to prevent health issues related to the severe cold.
The unexpected weather patterns have also led to disruptions in daily life, including power outages and transportation delays. Emergency services are on alert to address any contingencies arising from the adverse weather conditions.
As the region continues to experience these weather fluctuations, residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and exercise caution to ensure safety during this period.
