Himachal Weather Alert: Hailstorm Hits Orchards, Rain and Snowfall Disrupt Normal Life

Shimla, April 21 Heavy rains, hailstorms, and fresh snowfall lashed several parts of Himachal Pradesh on Sunday night, causing widespread disruption and significant crop damage. The higher reaches of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and Kullu districts received fresh snow, while lower regions such as Shimla and its surrounding areas experienced heavy rain and hail, adding to the woes of farmers and residents.

Rain, Snowfall Recorded Across Regions

As per data from the Meteorological Department, snowfall was recorded in:

• Hansa (Lahaul) 8 cm

• Keylong 2 cm

Significant rainfall was recorded in:

• Pooh 48 mm

• Salooni 40 mm

• Kothi 35 mm

• Kalpa 34 mm

• Sangla 31 mm

• Reckong Peo 27 mm

• Bilaspur, Morang 20 mm each

• Manali, Ghagas, Agghar 18 mm each

The renewed snowfall has caused temperatures to drop sharply in high-altitude regions, leading to a temporary return of cold weather and offering a respite from early summer heat in the plains.

Fruit Crops Hit Hard by Hailstorm

Heavy hailstorms in apple belts such as Theog, Narkanda, Jubbal, Kotkhai, Rohru, Chopal, and Rampur have damaged apple, plum, peach, and apricot crops. With fruit trees currently in the flowering and budding stage, the hailstones have raised fears of major production losses this season.

Orchardists Demand Relief Package

Harish Chauhan, President of the Himachal Pradesh Fruit, Vegetable, and Flower Growers Association, said the hailstorm has inflicted severe damage to horticulture in the region. He urged the government to take immediate steps, strengthen the crop insurance scheme, and ensure timely compensation to farmers.

“Assessment delays worsen the impact for growers every year. The government must act swiftly to provide relief,” Chauhan said.

Orange Alert Issued for April 21

The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued an Orange Alert for April 21, warning of thunderstorms, intense rain, hailstorms, and snowfall in high-altitude areas. While April 22 is expected to see continued unstable weather, no alert has been issued for the day. Clear skies are forecast for April 23, but fresh disturbances and precipitation may return between April 24–27.