Shimla, Apr 12 (Reporter) A fresh spell of snowfall in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh and widespread rain across the state brought much-needed relief from the rising temperatures, even as it disrupted normal life in several areas. Tourists thronged Koksar in Lahaul and Spiti to enjoy the picturesque white landscape, while low-lying regions remained under overcast skies throughout the day. Light drizzling added to the winter-like feel, unusual for mid-April, with thick clouds hovering over most districts. The snowfall primarily affected higher altitudes including Kukumseri, Gondla, and Keylong, where 7.8 cm, 3 cm, and 1 cm of snow were recorded respectively. The snowfall led to a sharp drop in mercury levels across major tourist towns and hill stations. Keylong, the coldest in the state, registered a minimum temperature of 0.1°C. Manali dropped to 9.3°C, Shimla saw a low of 9.0°C, and Kalpa settled at 4.8°C. Kufri also felt the chill at 5.7°C. The temperature dip rejuvenated tourist spots but made roads slippery and movement difficult in high-altitude areas. In Lahul-Spiti district, the Udaipur road was impacted by landslides, affecting local connectivity. Rainfall too lashed many parts of the state, with Dharamshala recording the highest precipitation at 40 mm, followed by Jogindernagar and Baijnath at 32 mm each. Jot received 24.4 mm, Dalhousie 22 mm, and Palampur 19.2 mm. Solan (15 mm), Mandi (14.8 mm), and Jatton Barrage and Malraon (14 mm each) also reported moderate showers. Other notable amounts were recorded in Sundernagar (13.4 mm), Chamba (11 mm), Kothi (10.2 mm), and Jubberhatti (10.1 mm), indicating widespread but variable rainfall across the region. The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for April 12, warning of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning at isolated places across districts like Shimla, Kangra, Mandi, Kullu, and Sirmaur. "Though no hailstorm was recorded in the last 24 hours, a warning has been issued for possible hailstorm activity in some pockets. Residents and tourists are advised to stay indoors during storm activity and avoid sheltering under trees or near metallic structures." IMD said in the weather forecast. The weather is expected to remain dry for the next few days, but light precipitation is likely to return by April 16 in higher altitudes. Authorities have urged caution in vulnerable areas, particularly in landslide-prone zones like Lahul-Spiti, where ongoing weather conditions might trigger further disruptions...////...