Heavy snowfall plummets temperatures in HP

Shimla, Feb 11: Shimla and its adjoining areas are experiencing the first snowfall of the year after a long dry spell during the winter season.

Heavy snowfall is being reported from all the areas on higher altitude.

The met office said Shimla town had recorded over six inches of snow much to the delight of tourists who had thronged the place in large numbers in its anticipation, while Jakhu Hills received about eight inches of snow till 1200 hrs.

The temperatures in the town plummeted below freezing point due to snowfall, the heaviest in the town in many years, it said.

The famous tourist resorts of Kufri, 17 km from here, Sarahan, Narakanda and Fagu were also experiencing fresh spell of snowfall, which had intensified coldwave conditions in the state.

Heavy snowfall continues in in the tribal districts of Kinnuar, Lahaul Spiti, Kullu and Chamba and other districts of Kangra, Mandi, Sirmaur and Shimla, disrupting vehicular traffic on several state and national highways in the state.

Widespread rains were also reported from mid and lower hills of the state since last night and the met office said strong western disturbance was responsible for the heavy snow and rain in the state.

UNI