Planning a Mountain Getaway This Weekend? IMD Warns of Dense Fog in Top Himachal Destinations

As winter tightens its grip on northern India, Himachal Pradesh is experiencing an intense cold wave, prompting the India Meteorological Department to issue a dense fog warning in various parts of the state. If you are looking forward to weekend getaway in Shimla, Manali, and Kullu, it would be a good idea to keep the changing weather patterns in mind.

As per the latest weather update issued by the IMD, dense fog is likely to be prevalent in isolated areas of Himachal Pradesh between December 18 and December 22. These dates mark the peak time when a large number of tourists move to the Himalayas, and consequently, there are concerns regarding the safety of journeys due to reduced visibility.

What the Weather Forecast Says

The regional meteorological centre has forecast mostly dry weather over the next five days in the low and medium hills of Himachal Pradesh. However, a traveller planning to go to higher areas should be careful. Light rain and snowfall at isolated places in the higher Himalayan regions has been predicted on the 20th and 21st of December as well.

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Additionally, a yellow alert has been issued for dense fog for some pockets, including surrounding areas of Bhakra reservoir in Bilaspur, along with some areas of Balh Valley in Mandi district, on December 18 and 19. Dense fog during early morning hours can severely impact visibility, especially along mountain roads, posing a danger to unaccustomed motorists.

Why Dense Fog in the Mountains Is a Serious Issue

Unlike in plains, mountain roads are narrow, winding, or less well-lit and safeguarded. The fog is thick, and one cannot see much, even a few meters, which makes it prone to skidding, head-on crashes, and vehicles going off the road. The cold wave makes black ice form in shaded areas, particularly in the morning and night hours.

In the case of travellers, such environments could result in travel holds or road closures during this period of the day. People whose plans involve travelling during the evening and/or early morning are the most affected during this time.

Precautions to Take If You're Traveling to the Mountain Regions

If you already have trips planned, the following guidelines will help you avoid problems and stay safe while you are away:

• Try to avoid travelling in the early morning or late evening hours when the fog is thickest.
• Check the latest weather conditions and road status before your journey.
• Keep your speed slow, use fog lights; avoid high beams since light reflects back in fog.
• Keep a good distance away from other cars and do not overtake on blind corners.
• Take warm clothes, thermals, and gloves because the temperature can drop very quickly.
• Always have kits of emergency items, such as medications, mobile phone power banks, torchlights, and snacks,
• Hire local drivers if you are not accustomed to driving in the hills.
• Be flexible with the tour schedule in case the weather changes unexpectedly.

Is a Change of Plans Advised?

Although the circumstances are not dire enough to call for a complete stop to travels, extreme care is recommended. Those who may be accompanied by seniors, kids, and/or are engaging in self-driven tours should exercise even greater diligence. It is best to avoid travels during peak fog hours, if feasible.

Bottomline

Dense fog and cold wave conditions across Himachal Pradesh may affect travel safety this week; planning wisely and driving cautiously is recommended.