Shimla, Jan 9 (FN Agency) Despite inclement weather conditions and light snowfall on high reaches, state registered an increase in Minimum and Maximum temperatures as Mercury stayed five to six degrees above normal. India Meteorological Department(IMD) recorded three centimetre snowfall at Keylong headquarter of Lahaul-Spiti district. Kukamseri also received 3.2 mm rainfall. Advisory has been issued by Horticulture Department directing farmers to stop training and pruning in the orchard in drought like condition recommending and apply micro-nutrients. Sudden change in the weather conditions and abnormal increase in temperature may affect plant dormancy, a Horticulture expert said. Minimum temperature of Keylong was minus 1.7 degrees but seven degrees above normal. Kalpa in Kinnuar two degrees,Shimla 10.3 and 7.5 above normal, Narkanda 6, Kufri and Chamba 8.7, Dalhousie 9, Solan, Mandi, and Manali six degrees, Hamirpur 7.7 and Bilaspur 5.5.Met Office forecast mainly dry weather in next 24 hrs.
Weather condition in the District Administration Lahaul-Spiti sounded Advisory to commuters and tourist. “Keeping in view the road and weather conditions in the district, and the Black Ice Phenomenon and slippery road conditions on NH 003, all Locals and Pangi bound Vehicles are allowed (Except Truck & Two Wheeler) to enter district via ATR (vice versa) from 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM only without any restriction. Only 4 by four vehicles are allowed to enter the district via ATR upto North Portal ( vice versa ) from 10:00 AM to 03:00 PM only till further orders.” Police Department Lahaul & Spiti will oversee the traffic management and coordinate with District Kullu Police. Due to inclement weather Locals & tourists are advised to be very cautious while traveling in the valley. In case of snowfall, they are requested to move and stay in safe places. All Hotel and Homestay owners are also requested to advise their guests likewise.