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Shimla Hit by Sudden, Fierce Hailstorm
18 Mar
Summary
- Shimla experienced a sudden, heavy hailstorm on Monday afternoon.
- Temperatures dropped sharply, causing temporary movement paralysis.
- Fresh western disturbance may bring more rain and thunderstorms.
Shimla experienced a dramatic weather shift on Monday afternoon when a sudden, heavy hailstorm blanketed parts of the city, causing an abrupt temperature plunge. This unusual event disrupted the typical mid-March weather pattern, leading to temporary paralysis of movement. Cooler, overcast skies greeted the Himachal Pradesh capital on Tuesday morning.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light rain for Shimla on March 17, with temperatures expected to reach a high of 19°C and a low of 4°C. Following this, Shimla is predicted to face thunderstorm conditions from March 18 through March 20, with maximum temperatures dropping to 15°C. A slight recovery is anticipated by March 21-22, with temperatures climbing back toward 18°C.
Several other areas in Himachal Pradesh, including Dharamshala, Manali, and Kullu, are also expected to receive rainfall. Higher reaches of the state experienced snowfall, with Khadrala recording about 10.2 cm. Authorities reported no major structural damage but noted widespread disruptions to pedestrian traffic. Residents were cautioned about potential disruptions to essential services, reduced visibility, and traffic congestion from strong winds forecast for March 18-20.
