Shimla Receives Season's First Snowfall, Traffic and Power Supply Affected in Upper Regions
According to the weather department, light to moderate snowfall is expected in Shimla city for the next four to five hours. Written by Saurabh Parashar Shimla | January 23, 2026 10:00 AM IST 2 min read According to the weather department, light to moderate snowfall is expected in Shimla city for the next four to five hours. (Express Photo)Advertisement Shimla, the summer capital of Himachal Pradesh, received the season's first snowfall on Friday, delighting tourists while disrupting normal life in several upper reaches of the district. Popular tourist spots such as the Ridge, Mall Road, Kufri, Kupvi, and nearby areas witnessed light to moderate snowfall, turning the hill town into a picturesque winter landscape.
According to the weather department, light to moderate snowfall is expected in Shimla city for the next four to five hours. The fresh snowfall, however, affected vehicular movement in Upper Shimla.
Traffic Disruptions and Safety Advisories
A district administration spokesperson said, "Traffic towards higher reaches was disrupted as roads turned slippery. The Chopal–Deha main road has been blocked following snowfall in the region. An advisory urging commuters to avoid unnecessary travel until weather conditions improve was issued. Authorities have specifically cautioned motorists against driving on the Chopal–Deha road due to safety concerns."
The local met centre in Shimla has forecast heavy snowfall and rainfall. The Shimla administration has issued an advisory, asking people to not drive unnecessarily.
Power Supply and Other Impacts
In Chopal subdivision, snowfall disrupted electricity supply in several areas, while water supply remains normal so far. Meanwhile, increased slipperiness was reported on the Dhalli–Kufri road in Shimla, further adding to traffic woes.
- Snowfall was also reported from higher reaches of Sarahan, Taklech, Nankhari and Rampur, where cold conditions intensified significantly.
- At Kharapathar and the upper areas of Jubbal subdivision, snowfall began during the day, marking the onset of winter conditions in these regions as well.
- In Kupvi, light snowfall is continuing on road stretches, though essential services and utilities are functioning normally as of now.
Administrative Response and Precautions
The local administration said it is on alert and is closely monitoring the situation, particularly in snowbound and vulnerable areas. Officials advised residents and visitors alike to exercise caution, follow weather advisories, and stay updated on road and power conditions until the weather stabilises.
This snowfall event highlights the challenges faced by high-altitude regions during winter, affecting daily life and infrastructure. The administration's proactive measures aim to mitigate risks and ensure safety for all.
