Snowfall in upper reaches of Kullu; hailstorm batter Sainj, Banjar valley
The upper reaches of Kullu and Lahaul and Spiti districts witnessed fresh snowfall while lower regions experienced heavy rainfall, bringing unexpected chill during the summer. By afternoon, the skies cleared and the weather turned pleasant. However, flights to the Bhuntar airport were cancelled due to unfavourable weather conditions.
While the rain provided some relief, it also led to devastation. At Shush village in Kullu, a powerful storm uprooted a massive tree in the forest, completely destroying a temporary tent belonging to a sheep herder. Six goats were killed and many others were seriously injured in the incident.
Meanwhile, intense hailstorms struck several areas of Sainj and the Banjar valley in Kullu district, dealing a severe blow to local agriculture. The sudden barrage of hailstones battered apple orchards and standing rabi crops, leaving farmers heartbroken as they watched their hard-earned yield being ruined within moments. With unexpected destruction, many farmers now face economic uncertainty, fearing substantial losses. Continuous heavy rain, lasting for three hours, disrupted normal life in Kullu, flooding roads and making movement difficult.
The Rohtang Pass and its surrounding high peaks in the Lahaul valley also experienced snowfall. While lower areas received rainfall, the higher elevations experienced fresh snow, leading to a sharp fall in the temperatures.
In the Mayad valley of Lahaul and Spiti district, agricultural work was significantly affected. Residents reported disruptions in sowing, which is crucial during this time, due to persistent rain and snowfall. Besides, flashfloods struck near Jungle Camp in Udaipur subdivision, blocking the Sansari-Killar-Tindi-Thirot road until afternoon, according to updates from Tindi and BRO 94 RCC. The Lahaul authorities have advised travellers to proceed with caution.
Local administration teams have been mobilised to evaluate the extent of damage caused by extreme weather events. Relief efforts are underway and officials are working to provide assistance to affected communities such as shelter, food supplies and essential aid. Veterinary teams have also been deployed to treat the injured livestock. Besides, the district authorities have begun assessing farmers’ losses for the payment of compensation.
One vehicle was damaged after an uprooted tree fell on it at Paddal ground in Mandi. The Himachal Darshan Gallery near Mandi also suffered damage due to a fierce storm.
