Hailstorm and thundershowers lash Himachal, mercury drops sharply

SHIMLA, May 4: Himachal Pradesh witnessed a sharp shift from the ongoing heatwave as widespread thundershowers, hailstorms, and strong winds lashed several parts of the state, disrupting normal life and bringing down temperatures significantly.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), hailstorms and thundershowers affected districts like Shimla, Kangra, Chamba, and Kullu, reducing visibility and causing inconvenience to residents and tourists alike. The State Disaster Management Authority also issued an advisory as gusty winds touched speeds of 50 kmph in Reckong Peo and 46 kmph in Hamirpur and Bilaspur.
Nagrota Suriyan in Kangra recorded the highest rainfall at 25 mm, followed closely by Narkanda (24.8 mm), Bharmaur (22 mm), Sujanpur Tira (21.6 mm), Mandi (20.4 mm), Rohru (20 mm), and Gohar (19 mm). Other locations like Hamirpur, Shillaroo, Chamba, Manali, and Dehra Gopipur also received between 11 mm and 18.5 mm of rainfall. Kotgarh was hit by a hailstorm
Minimum temperatures of Shimla 13.9 degrees, Bhuntar 14.4, Kalpa 6, Dharamshala 12.7, Una 18.8, Nahan 17.7, Keylong 4.8, Solan 14.4, Manali 10.3 , Kangra 16.6, Mandi 16.9, Bilaspur 19.7, Hamirpur 17, Chamba 15..9 and Dalhousie 10.2, Jubberhatti 16.2, Kufri 8.9 , Narakanda 5.9 , Kasauli 15.6 –
The IMD has issued a Yellow Alert for isolated thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds (30 40 kmph) in Shimla, Kangra, and Chamba districts until May 5. There is also a likelihood of light snowfall in isolated parts of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and Kullu.
Residents have been advised to avoid outdoor activities, unplug electronic appliances, and seek safe shelter away from trees and metallic structures. Farmers and livestock owners have also been urged to move animals to safer locations. (UNI)

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