Rain and hailstorm in Shimla after dry spell, more rain likely: IMD
A sudden spell of heavy hailstorm accompanied by rain lashed the hill town of Shimla on Monday afternoon, covering several parts of the city with hailstones and leading to a sharp drop in temperature.
Several roads were blanketed with hailstones as the abrupt change in weather caught many residents and pedestrians off guard. People without umbrellas or rain gear were seen taking shelter along roadsides and under nearby structures as the hailstorm intensified.
Despite the inconvenience caused to commuters, locals said the rainfall after a prolonged dry spell could help recharge water resources in the region.
Local resident Roshan said the sudden weather change created difficulties for people moving around the city.
He noted that while rainfall is beneficial, hailstorms can damage crops and added that normal rainfall would have been more favourable.
Another resident, Diksha Jamwal, said the hailstorm led to a further drop in temperature and may affect agricultural produce. She said the sudden cold conditions could also cause inconvenience for people, particularly as children are currently on vacation.
During the hailstorm, dense clouds briefly darkened parts of the city, prompting vehicles and homes to switch on their lights during the day. Authorities have not reported any major damage so far, though the sudden weather change caused temporary disruption to normal movement in the town.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said a new western disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from the night of March 17, with its impact expected in Himachal Pradesh between March 18 and March 21.
IMD scientist Shobhit Katiyar said light rainfall and thunderstorm activity are likely in many parts of the state on March 19 and 20, while snowfall is expected in some higher reaches.
The IMD has also issued an Orange Alert for March 18 and 19 for hailstorm and thunderstorm activity in several districts, including Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Kangra and Sirmaur.
Katiyar added that the recent rainfall has helped reduce the rainfall deficit in the state. Earlier this month, the deficit had reached nearly 98 per cent, but it has improved following the latest spell of rain and may further improve with the upcoming weather system.
