Shimla, surrounding areas hit by hailstorm; crops affected

Shimla and its surrounding areas were hit by a severe hailstorm this evening which not only disrupted the traffic but is also likely to damage crops.

The hailstorm lasted for more than an hour and the people, who were caught unaware by the weather change, were forced to rush indoors.

The farmers, the apple and stone fruit-growers are worried as the hailstorm was disastrous for the crops during the month of April.

The hailstorm disrupted vehicular traffic as thick layer of hail accumulated making the drive risky on slippery roads.