Latest snowfall News | Top snowfall News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking snowfall News Today | English snowfall News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Fresh Snowfall Blankets Kashmir as Mercury Remains Near Freezing

January 6, 2025, 12:32 am

Kashmir experienced a fresh spell of snowfall on Sunday, with Srinagar and several parts of the valley waking up to a winter wonderland. The summer capital, however, continued to reel under a biting cold wave as the maximum temperature remained near freezing for the second consecutive day.

Snowfall was reported in the northern districts of Bandipora, Baramulla, and Kupwara, as well as parts of Budgam and Ganderbal in central Kashmir during the morning hours, according to officials. By evening, Srinagar and areas in south Kashmir also received fresh snow.

Mercury Dips Amid Intense Cold

Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 1.5°C on Sunday, slightly higher than Saturday’s 1.2°C but still well below normal. The night temperature settled at -2.5°C, a slight improvement from the previous night’s -2.2°C, according to the Meteorological Department.

In Kokernag, south Kashmir, temperatures plummeted to a bone-chilling -8.1°C, making it the coldest recorded place in the valley.

Other notable minimum temperatures included:

Gulmarg (a popular skiing destination): -4.0°C
Pahalgam (base camp for the Amarnath Yatra): -3.2°C
Qazigund (gateway town to Kashmir): -3.6°C
Kupwara (north Kashmir): -2.8°C
Konibal, Pampore: -3.5°C

Chillai-Kalan’s Icy Grip

Kashmir remains under the icy embrace of Chillai-Kalan, the harshest 40-day period of winter, which began on December 21. Known for its sub-zero temperatures and frequent snowfall, this phase is vital for replenishing water reserves in the region.

Chillai-Kalan will continue until January 30, after which it will give way to Chillai-Khurd (20 days of milder cold) and Chillai-Bachha (10 days of baby cold).

Despite the frigid conditions, the snow-covered landscapes of Gulmarg and Pahalgam remain major attractions for tourists and adventure enthusiasts. With snow continuing to blanket the valley, Kashmir offers a picture-perfect winter getaway.

The Met Department has forecast more snow and sub-zero temperatures in the coming days, urging residents to take necessary precautions against the cold wave.

Chilling Moment: Man Jumps As Truck Skids On Icy Manali Road | WATCH

December 28, 2024, 2:15 pm

Himachal Pradesh is experiencing heavy snowfall this month, transforming the region into a picturesque winter wonderland. However, the enchanting views come with significant challenges, especially for locals and tourists navigating treacherous icy roads.

Truck Slips Into Valley Amid Snowstorm

A video currently circulating online captures the dramatic moment when a small truck lost control on a snow-covered road in Manali, slipping into the Solang Valley. The incident unfolded as heavy snow blanketed the area, creating perilous driving conditions.

In the footage, the truck begins to skid on the icy surface, prompting the driver to jump out in a desperate attempt to avoid tragedy. Although he narrowly escaped falling into the valley, his efforts to stop the vehicle proved futile as the truck plunged over the edge.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

बर्फ़बारी में कभी कभी बड़े खतरों का सामना भी करना पड़ता है। मनाली में इस गाड़ी को देखिए, बर्फ पर फिसलकर खाई में जा गिरी।#himachal #manali #Snowfall2024 pic.twitter.com/GL6bisBy73

— Ajit Singh Rathi (@AjitSinghRathi) December 28, 2024

Similar Incidents on Icy Roads

This isn’t the first such event this season. Earlier in the month, a Mahindra Thar skidded off a snow-laden road near the Atal Tunnel, which connects Manali to the Lahaul-Spiti Valley. The driver managed to jump to safety before the vehicle slipped off the road.

Rescue Operations Amid Snow Chaos

The recent snowfall has left approximately 1,000 vehicles stranded between Solang and the Atal Tunnel. Authorities in Kullu launched a large-scale rescue operation, assisting around 5,000 tourists caught in the adverse conditions.

“Due to fresh snowfall, about 1,000 tourists and other vehicles were stuck in Solang Nala. The vehicles and tourists have been rescued by Kullu Police and taken to safe places. The rescue operation is still ongoing,” Kullu Police shared on X (formerly Twitter).

Widespread Disruptions Across Himachal Pradesh

The snowfall has disrupted life across Himachal Pradesh, leading to the closure of over 200 roads, including three national highways. Key affected areas include Shimla (123 roads blocked), Lahaul and Spiti (36 roads), and Kullu (25 roads).

Additionally, over 170 transformers have been damaged, causing power outages in multiple regions. Authorities are working to restore services and clear blocked roads, but the heavy snowfall continues to pose challenges.

While the snowfall has drawn tourists seeking to enjoy the winter landscapes, it also serves as a stark reminder of the hazards of traveling through mountainous regions in such conditions.

Possible Snowfall in the UK on New Year’s Day: Where It Could Hit

December 27, 2024, 4:54 pm

Britons are preparing for a cold snap and snowfall as temperatures are forecast to plunge to -2C on New Year’s Eve in some areas. The Met Office’s long-term forecast suggests that the mild, settled weather of recent days will quickly shift as the new year approaches. Snow will initially fall in northern Scotland, with the weather pattern expected to spread south by 6pm on Monday. As the evening progresses, heavier snowfall is anticipated, and by Tuesday, it could extend further south across the UK.

Scotland will also face heavy rain and strong winds, with similar conditions affecting the north and west of the UK. Met Office meteorologist Tom Morgan commented: “Not a lot changes through the rest of this week and indeed this weekend, but as we move towards the New Year, we could see a change to cooler conditions and wetter conditions more widely. There could be some heavy rain at times and there is an increasing chance of some snow – but it’s too early to say where that snow is going to fall.”

Meanwhile, Boxing Day saw walkers and swimmers experiencing a mild, overcast day with occasional drizzle. Friday is expected to bring very similar conditions to Boxing Day, with temperatures around 10C to 13C and cloudy skies, along with light drizzle in areas of Wales and south-west England. Looking ahead to the weekend, Scotland will see windier and wetter conditions, while the rest of the UK is expected to experience cloud and showers.

Snowfall Transforms Shimla, Manali, and Kashmir into Winter Wonders : Watch

December 25, 2024, 8:11 am

Tourist destinations like Shimla and Manali in Himachal Pradesh, along with parts of Jammu and Kashmir, have been covered in fresh snow, creating a beautiful winter scene. While this snowfall has delighted tourists visiting for the Christmas holidays, it has also led to vehicle-related problems and road closures.

“White Christmas” in Himachal Pradesh

Shimla, Manali, and other popular towns in Himachal Pradesh have been blanketed in snow, offering a picturesque “white Christmas.” Tourists have flooded social media with images of the snowy landscapes. The MeT department has predicted snow and rain across various parts of the state, with the heaviest snowfall expected on Saturday.

MK Seth, President of Shimla Hotel and Tourism Stakeholders’ Association, mentioned that hotel occupancy in Shimla is over 70%, a significant rise of 30% due to the snowfall.

Snowfall Leads to Road Closures and Travel Issues

While the snow has brought joy to tourists, it has caused major travel disruptions. At least 223 roads, including three national highways, have been closed due to the snow. Some key routes, such as Attari to Leh and Sanj to Aut in Kullu, are among those affected. Tourists in hundreds of vehicles were stranded near the Atal Tunnel but were rescued late Monday evening.

Additional Chief Secretary Onkar Sharma advised tourists to follow safety instructions, avoid driving in snow, and heed advice from locals.

Impact on Shimla and Surrounding Areas

Shimla experienced the most road closures, with 145 roads shut down. Other areas like Kullu and Mandi reported 25 and 20 closures, respectively. Additionally, 356 transformers malfunctioned, leaving some areas without electricity. To address the situation, the Public Works Department has deployed 268 machines, including two snow blowers, to clear the roads.

Sadly, four people died in accidents related to vehicles skidding, while several others were injured in the past 24 hours.

Upper Shimla Cut Off from Capital

Reports confirmed that upper Shimla was cut off from the rest of the state due to slippery roads, with only 4×4 vehicles permitted to travel.

Enjoying Snowfall in Chail, Himachal near Shimla ?️? pic.twitter.com/Ta9y9jZHPR

— Ankit Khanna? (@ankit_khanna) December 24, 2024

Kashmir’s Freezing Temperatures and Snowfall

In Kashmir, higher altitudes received fresh snowfall on Tuesday, and temperatures dropped several degrees below freezing. The severe cold resulted in frozen water supply lines and a layer of ice covering water bodies.

Srinagar’s temperature fell to -6.6°C on Monday night, while Pahalgam recorded -7.8°C. Other areas like Gulmarg and Qazigund also saw sub-zero temperatures, with Konibal in Pampore reaching the lowest at -8°C.

Snowfall Strands Hundreds of Tourists in Manali; Over 700 Rescued

December 24, 2024, 6:52 am

A sudden spell of heavy snowfall blanketed Manali, Himachal Pradesh, on Monday. As a result, many vehicles were stuck, leaving hundreds of tourists stranded between Solang and the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang.

Swift Rescue Operations

Due to the heavy snowfall, around 1,000 vehicles were caught in a long traffic jam. Consequently, police quickly launched a rescue operation. They managed to shift about 700 tourists to safer places.
Meanwhile, visuals from the area showed police personnel assisting drivers and travelers in navigating their vehicles. At the same time, local authorities coordinated efforts to ensure everyone’s safety.

Holiday Rush Intensifies Situation

The influx of tourists further complicated the situation. Many visitors had traveled to Manali to celebrate Christmas and New Year amidst snow-covered mountains. However, the unexpected snowfall created significant congestion.

Similarly, Shimla, another favorite destination, also experienced fresh snowfall. This transformed the city into a picturesque winter wonderland, attracting even more visitors.

Snowfall Revives Local Hopes

Notably, Shimla’s snowfall came after a two-week gap. This fresh snow not only delighted tourists but also brought renewed hope to local businesses. For instance, the tourism industry, struggling since the COVID-19 pandemic, saw a much-needed boost.

Additionally, many tourists extended their stay to enjoy the scenic beauty. While some initially planned to leave, they decided to remain and soak in the charm of a “White Christmas.” Consequently, local businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors are optimistic about an extended tourist season.

Visitors Express Their Joy

For many tourists, the snowfall was a magical experience. Hemant, a visitor from Rewari, Haryana, shared his excitement.

“The snowfall is such a beautiful sight. The weather is amazing. We didn’t expect this at all, but when we woke up this morning, there was snow. We were planning to leave, but now we’ve decided to stay longer. This is the first snowfall I’ve ever seen, and it’s a lifetime experience for me,” said Hemant.

Likewise, Pramod Yogi, a tourist from Faridabad, Haryana, described his emotions.

“The joy this snowfall has brought is beyond words. Experiencing the stunning beauty of nature for the first time in my life has been amazing. I urge everyone to visit this place and enjoy it. Watching the snowfall has been a thrilling experience, and I would recommend everyone to come here to witness and enjoy it,” he said.

Chemical Spill at Paper Mill Leads to Unusual Brown Snowfall in the US

December 17, 2024, 3:00 pm

In Maine, snow is usually white, but now residents in Rumford witnessed a rare phenomenon: brown snowfall. According to officials posting on Facebook, the peculiar color was due to a mishap at a nearby paper mill, which put black liquor, a byproduct from the making of paper, in the atmosphere. This made it strange and gave the snowstorm that unusual color.

Watch:

As snow fell across Rumford, Maine, some residents noticed some off-color accumulation.

A malfunction at a local paper mill released spent black liquor, a by-product, into the atmosphere, causing falling snow to turn brown as it fell. https://t.co/0p3MoPtKQB pic.twitter.com/rhjjmAh7HQ

— ABC News (@ABC) December 12, 2024

Authorities quickly concluded that it was a skin irritant with a pH of 10 and advised residents not to touch or ingest the brown snow. Photos of the brown snow showed it covering open areas, such as a local sports field.

Rumford officials told the public, “We are confident that the public safety concerns are minimal at this time. In the meantime, out of an abundance of caution, please avoid ingesting or direct skin contact with the brown snow.” The Maine Department of Environmental Protection further tested the pH levels of the snow and found them to be “8 or lower,” thus allaying the toxicity issues. Still, the officials recommended not to touch the skin.

Although nontoxic, the public was warned to keep children and pets away from the snow, and the paper mill agreed to fund external testing. Local school systems were notified to prevent students from being exposed to affected areas.

Rumford officials expected that rain on December 11 would wash away the black liquor from homes and streets. They asked the residents to contact the town manager’s office with any concerns regarding the incident.

Manali’s Snowy Transformation: A Winter Paradise or A Hazardous Road Trip? | WATCH

December 12, 2024, 1:12 pm

Earlier this week, Manali, the scenic hill station in Himachal Pradesh, welcomed its first snowfall of the season, transforming the landscape into a picturesque winter wonderland. While the snowfall enchanted tourists, it also brought to light the hidden dangers associated with driving on snow-covered roads.

Viral Video Highlights Snowy Road Hazards

A viral Instagram video, which has amassed over 24 million views, captured the perilous conditions on the region’s icy roads. In the footage, vehicles can be seen losing control and skidding, with one car narrowly avoiding a deadly plunge into a gorge. The video sparked widespread concern and debate on social media about road safety and precautions during snowfall.

Calls for Improved Safety Measures

Viewers of the viral video voiced concerns over the lack of proper safety measures in place for snowy driving conditions. One user pointed out that many European countries mandate snow tyres or chains, urging India to adopt similar precautions. Others lamented the lack of salt treatment on the roads, which could have helped in reducing the danger posed by the icy surface.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hamza Murtaza (@_hamza_murtaza_)

Impact on Road Traffic and Safety

The snowfall led to major disruptions across Himachal Pradesh. According to the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC), 87 roads, including the Atal Tunnel-Leh National Highway near Rohtang Pass, were closed. The upper Shimla region also faced traffic blockages, and more than 800 people in 490 vehicles were stranded in Lahaul due to heavy snow. Fortunately, authorities managed to rescue all stranded travellers by Sunday evening.

Tragic Fatality Highlights the Risks

The snowfall also led to a tragic accident in the Lahaul-Spiti district. A 49-year-old tourist from Delhi lost his life after his car skidded on the icy road while attempting to overtake other stranded vehicles. The car collided with a parked tipper, resulting in the fatality, while three other passengers were injured in the crash.

Authorities Issue Safety Guidelines

In response to the rising number of accidents, authorities have issued safety guidelines for travellers in snow-covered areas. They are urging drivers to use snow chains on their tyres, maintain low speeds, and avoid overtaking other vehicles in icy conditions. These precautions are seen as essential to preventing further accidents and ensuring the safety of all road users.

Winter Tourism and Its Risks

While the first snowfall of the season has attracted tourists to Manali, it has also served as a stark reminder of the risks associated with winter travel. Visitors are being advised to plan their trips carefully, prioritise safety, and stay updated on weather conditions before venturing into snow-covered regions.

The tragic accident and the viral video have sparked crucial discussions on road safety and the need for better infrastructure to handle winter conditions in popular tourist destinations like Manali.

Manali’s Snowy Roads Turn Dangerous, Cars Lose Control | WATCH

December 11, 2024, 3:37 pm

Manali’s first snowfall of the season on Monday created a scenic winter wonderland, but it also revealed the dangers of navigating its snow-covered roads.

A viral Instagram video, garnering over 24 million views, captured cars skidding out of control on Manali’s icy, narrow roads. One vehicle came dangerously close to the edge of a gorge, narrowly avoiding disaster.

Watch:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hamza Murtaza (@_hamza_murtaza_)

The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) said that 87 roads were closed in Himachal Pradesh, including the Atari-Leh National Highway 3 near Rohtang Pass, due to heavy snowfall. Over 800 people stranded in 490 vehicles in Lahaul have been rescued by authorities since Sunday evening. Snow and slippery conditions also halted traffic in upper Shimla.

Bhishan Garg, 49, a tourist from New Delhi, was killed in Lahaul-Spiti district when his car skidded on an icy road. He was trying to overtake the other vehicles, which were unable to move in the jammed traffic. His car skidded out of control and hit a parked tipper. The other three passengers suffered injuries.

In answer to the hazardous weather, authorities have called on drivers to put snow chains in place, drive at low speeds, and avoid overtaking on slippery roads.

Seoul Shattered By Century-Old Snowfall Record, Travel Chaos Grips South Korea

November 27, 2024, 4:18 pm

South Korea’s capital, Seoul, has been hit by its heaviest November snowfall since records began in 1907, according to the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA). By 7 a.m. Wednesday, 16.5 cm (6.5 inches) of snow had fallen, surpassing the previous record of 12.4 cm on November 28, 1972. This marks the first snowfall of the winter season.

Travel Chaos and Disruptions

The snowstorm caused significant disruptions, grounding at least 220 flights nationwide and halting operations for around 90 ferries. Authorities also closed hundreds of hiking trails as emergency workers across the country tackled safety hazards, including fallen trees and damaged signs.

Icy roads created a challenging morning commute in Seoul, where one subway line experienced a nine-minute delay during rush hour, according to Yonhap News Agency. Tragically, a five-vehicle collision in the eastern town of Hongcheon left one person dead and four injured.

Government Response

President Yoon Suk Yeol instructed the safety and transport ministries to deploy all necessary personnel and equipment to prevent snow-related accidents. He emphasized the importance of quickly sharing weather and traffic updates with the public to minimize disruptions and ensure safety.

The KMA reported that snow blanketed much of the country, with regions in the central, eastern, and southwestern areas receiving between 10 to 23 cm. The agency forecasts continued snowfall in most areas until Thursday noon.

Advisory issued for Kedarnath Dham yatra pilgrims in view of rain, snowfall alert

April 23, 2023, 1:34 pm

On Sunday, the Uttarakhand government sent a warning asking pilgrims to exercise caution and begin their yatra in accordance with the weather forecast in light of recent rain and snowfall at Kedarnath Dham.

“It may be noted that intermittent rain and snowfall continue in Kedarnath Dham. All the devotees coming to Kedarnath Dham from the country and abroad have been informed by the government to check the weather forecast before going to Kedarnath Dham and have been asked to carry enough warm clothes,” the government stated.
“There was heavy snowfall in Kedarnath Dham yesterday. Pilgrims are requested to be alert and begin their yatra by looking at the weather,” said Uttarakhand DGP Ashok Kumar.

It has been said by the government that adequate health arrangements have been made on all the travel routes. Passengers can also visit the nearest health centre immediately after starting the journey or if their health deteriorates during the journey and consult a doctor.The state government is determined to make the journey smooth, safe and uninterrupted. The travel arrangements are being regularly monitored from a higher level.

Kashmir girls practice amidst heavy snowfall due to lack of facilities

February 5, 2023, 4:10 pm

Amidst the heavy snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir over the last few days, several girls from far-flung areas were seen practising martial arts in capped grounds of Beerwah area of Budgam district. With love for Kashmir in their mind these girls have been practicing barefoot in the snow. According to Ayesha Zuhoor, a student of the sports academy they want to practice their game but lack the facilities for indoor practice due to which they have to practice outsooe since they dream to become an Olympic player. Speaking about the steps being taught, she said:

“Here we are taught steps for our self-defense. I want to request all girls to play this game as it will keep them away from drug addiction.”

The girls at the academy say that they want to prove that not only boys, but girls too can play such game. According to Sayeed Sujha Shah, the trainer of the academy the girls have a lot of zeal and stamina that even with the heavy snowfall the girls said that they want to practice in the snow and don’t want to be left behind. He also said that the snow is very cold and it is very difficult to practice bare footed in the snow but they are teaching the girls steps to defend themselves even in the snow. Moreover he requested the government to build adequate facilities for the girls and focus on making them good athletes so that they are able to achieve their dreams. “Meanwhile the academy will continue with the practice” said Shah

Snowfall disrupts normal life in Himachal Pradesh

January 26, 2023, 1:38 pm

Amid heavy snowfall in Himachal Pradesh, many roads were closed, and power and water supply schemes were badly affected in the last 24 hours. The Himachal Pradesh EOC said, “As many as 252 roads including four National Highways have been closed. 1,024 electricity supply schemes and 29 water supply schemes have been hampered in the snow-prone districts of the state.” Due to an avalanche in the area, the NH-05 has been closed.

Roads blocked, power and water supply disrupted in Himachal Pradesh

January 25, 2023, 6:47 pm

Amid snowfall in Himachal Pradesh, many roads have been closed and several power supply and water supply connections have been disrupted during the past 24 hours. However, the disaster management authority informed about the disruption.

Shimla to witness heavy snowfall: IMD

January 24, 2023, 11:43 am

According to the India Meteorological Department, a heavy snowfall warning has been issued across Himachal Pradesh for Tuesday and Wednesday. “We have issued a heavy snowfall warning for districts Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti and Kinnaur. The mid-hill districts of Kangra, Chamba, Mandi and Shimla will also have one or two spells of heavy snowfall in higher reaches,” Sandeep Kumar Sharma, a senior scientist at IMD, Himachal Pradesh, said.

Heavy snowfall disrupts public utility systems in HP

January 21, 2023, 1:35 pm

Due to heavy snowfall public utility systems in Himachal Pradesh have been disrupted in the past two days. In the state 355 roads including 3 National Highways are blocked. Meanwhile, the roads which are closed are 14 roads in Chamba, 2 in Kangra, 29 in Kinnaur, 47 roads and 2 national Highways (NH) in Kullu, 29 roads in Mandi district, 54 roads were closed in Shimla, and 177 roads in Lahaul Spiti.

Fresh snowfall in Himachal Pradesh, more likely in next 48 hours

January 13, 2023, 12:42 pm

As per a statement from India Meteorological Department (IMD) officials, “Snowfall is going on. Malana village in Kullu district received fresh snowfall. As a result, people found themselves in “knee-deep” snow.” Traffic movement has been affected due to the snowfall causing problems in commuting. The administration has suspended the movement of tourist vehicles beyond Solanganala.

during the next 48 hours, the higher reaches in Kinnaur, Chamba, Lahaul-Spiti, Kullu and Shimla districts are expected to get light to moderate snowfall