Planning a Trip to Manali or Srinagar? Why Today’s Hailstorm Alert is An Alert For All Tourists – Everything You Need to Know!

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), there will be hailstorms and/or thunderstorms in northern India that could impact traveling in many parts of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu/Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and the mountainous areas surrounding them.

These storms may produce rain, lightning strikes, strong winds, and/or hail in some of the above-mentioned regions. With the changes in the weather, and if you’re traveling within any of the affected areas, it may become increasingly difficult to see, be able to drive, and/or drive through the area without incident.

Why the Hailstorm Alert Matters for Tourists

Although hailstorms can produce hail and falling trees, they are particularly dangerous to people traveling by automobile. Hailstorms cause decreased visibility, cause roads to become wet, and create a high risk for landslides in mountainous locations.

Travelers on narrow mountain roads may be delayed due to falling debris, standing water, and/or road blockages. Hailstorms can cause problems for outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking and camping, and for taking tours on foot.

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Travel Disruptions Already Possible

The northern India area has experienced several days of rainy and stormy weather, and reports show that unstable conditions may persist for days to weeks.

Any travelers heading to Manali, Srinagar, or Shimla may wish to check their local weather conditions before beginning their trip.

What Tourists Should Avoid During the Alert

Travel professionals recommend limiting unnecessary travel through periods of being under threat of an active weather event with specially focused emphasis placed on travelling within isolated mountain areas. 

As well, trekking routes/paths, forest trails, riverbanks and open valley’s could become potentially dangerous during thunderstorms and lightning strikes. Tourists are also being warned not to drive during periods of excessive rain or hail as both can quickly reduce traction and visibility on an already hazardous road surface.

Safety Tips for Travellers

Tourists visiting hill station locations during unstable weather conditions should pack appropriately including bringing along warm clothing, rain protection, fully charged cellular devices, necessary medications and offline navigation assistance. 

Travellers can benefit by making flexible travel arrangements that could offset potential delays in transportation times related to weather disruptions.

Final Words

For any tourist that is considering a trip to Manali, Srinagar and surrounding regions, staying properly informed and making safety a high priority will be critical over the days ahead with the likelihood of unpredictable weather events impacting tourist safety. While picturesque mountain scenery will be found throughout variable weather systems, unexpected storms and/or hail storms can pose significant hazards if not accounted for by those travelling.

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