5,000 Tourists Rescued in Kullu's Winter Wonderland!
In a dramatic turn of events, authorities in Himachal Pradesh have successfully rescued approximately 5,000 tourists stranded at Solang Nala, a popular ski resort, amid relentless snowstorms that have gripped the region. The rescue operation, initiated by Kullu police on December 27, followed the entrapment of around 1,000 vehicles buried under fresh layers of heavy snowfall.
According to reports from the Kullu police, the escalating weather conditions prompted swift action as many tourists found themselves stranded in the picturesque yet perilous mountainous terrain. "Due to fresh snowfall today on December 27, approximately 1,000 tourists and their vehicles were stuck in Solang Nala. We have since rescued these individuals and transported them to safety," a police statement declared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
As heavy snowfall continues to engulf Himachal Pradesh, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert to warn residents and travelers of the worsening conditions. This alert encompasses forecasts of persistent snowfall and cold waves that are expected to affect the area through December 28. Six districts have been particularly hard hit, including Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Shimla, and Kinnaur.
Looking ahead, the IMD has predicted that a renewed cold wave will settle over the plains starting December 29, impacting regions such as Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Una. Severe cold conditions are likely to persist in Mandi, Kullu, and Chamba until January 1, raising concerns about travel and safety in these areas. Dense fog is anticipated on January 1 in isolated locales, which could further impede visibility and exacerbate travel disturbances.
Despite the challenging conditions, resident temperatures in Shimla hovered around a relatively mild 5°C on December 28, though a significant drop is expected shortly thereafter. The IMD has issued warnings to the public, encouraging heightened vigilance and precautionary measures as road blockages and disruptions in transportation are anticipated due to the heavy snowfall.
With the perilous weather conditions intensifying, Himachal Pradesh is bracing for a difficult period ahead. These recent events serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and sometimes treacherous nature of the environment in this stunning region, where the beauty of winter can quickly turn into a battle for survival. The successful rescue operation in Kullu stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the authorities and the tourists alike during these trying times.
Chief forecaster and ideologist of the weather forecast service Pogodnik. Co-author of scientific articles and specialized content for various online media.
