In a picturesque scene straight out of a winter postcard, Atal Tunnel in Rohtang was enveloped in a fresh layer of snow as heavy snowfall graced the region. A captivating video on the social media showcased enthusiastic tourists seizing the moment, capturing memories amidst the enchanting winter wonderland.

This spectacle follows a weather advisory issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), predicting adverse weather conditions for parts of Himachal Pradesh, including heavy rain, snow, thunderstorms, hail, and gusty winds on Sunday and Monday.

The IMD’s forecast pinpointed key districts such as Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Shimla, Mandi, Lahaul, and Spiti for the likelihood of heavy snowfall at isolated locations on February 18 and 19.

“Heavy rain/snow and thunderstorm accompanied with hail, gusty wind speed 40-50 kmph and lighting (possible) at isolated places,” said the Weather Department, underscoring the severity of the anticipated weather phenomenon.

Contrary to the prevailing dry weather conditions on Saturday, where daytime temperatures experienced a modest rise, the advent of snowfall has ushered in a mesmerizing transformation across the region.

While Una recorded a high temperature of 27 degree Celsius, Bilaspur and Sundernagar witnessed highs of 26 degrees and 24.9 degrees Celsius, respectively.

The scarcity of precipitation, a departure from the typical winter scenario, has been palpable throughout Himachal Pradesh. From January 1 to February 17, the hill state grappled with a significant rainfall deficit, receiving only 68.2 mm of average rainfall compared to the normal 142.2 mm during the same period, marking a deficit of 52 percent.

This precipitation shortfall has cast its shadow across the state, impacting all districts barring Mandi. Lahaul and Spiti district bore the brunt of the shortfall, encountering an 83 percent deficit in winter rainfall, while Hamirpur experienced a 15 percent deficit.