If you are planning to head to the high desert this week, stop and read this. This isn't a general travel guide; it is a breakdown of the current IMD Orange Alert and BRO operations affecting Spiti as of mid-May 2026.

1. The Orange Alert: May 11–15, 2026

According to the IMD Meteorological Centre Shimla (Press Release dated May 11, 2026), a significant wet spell is currently hitting the state.

• The Forecast: Spiti and the surrounding high hills are facing light to moderate snowfall, while the lower valleys are seeing hailstorms and gusty winds (50–60 kmph).

• The Impact: This isn't just "bad weather." The IMD has warned of slippery roads and low visibility. If you are at an altitude of 12,000+ feet in Kaza or Losar, the "rain" in the plains is "snow" for you. Expect sudden drops in day temperatures by 2–5°C.

2. Road Status: Kunzum Pass is Still a Wall of Ice

Don't let anyone tell you the "circuit" is open.

• BRO Status: As of May 12, 2026, Kunzum Pass (14,931 ft) remains officially closed for civilian traffic. While BRO teams are working on snow clearance from both the Kaza and Gramphu sides, 15-foot snow walls still block the pass.

• The Only Entry: Your only viable route is the Shimla-Kinnaur-Kaza (NH-5). However, with the current IMD warning, the Nigulsari stretch in Kinnaur is highly prone to shooting stones. Do not drive this stretch after 4:00 PM.

3. The "Frozen Pipe" Reality in Kaza

May is a "dry" month in Spiti—literally.

• Water Availability: At nighttime temperatures hitting -5°C to -10°C this week, running water is still a luxury. Most homestays in Kaza and Kibber are still using bucket-and-mug systems because the pipes freeze solid overnight.

• Acclimatization: Coming from the heat of Delhi? You are jumping from 42°C to sub-zero. Altitude Sickness (AMS) is a genuine threat in May because the air is exceptionally dry. Plan for at least two nights of gradual ascent (Sarahan and Kalpa) before hitting Kaza.

4. Chandratal: Forget It (For Now)

If you see photos of a blue Chandratal Lake in May 2026, they are likely old.

• Accessibility: The 14km diversion road from Batal to the lake is still snowbound. BRO clearance for this specific link typically doesn't finish until the first week of June.

• Camps: No commercial campsites are operational at Chandratal yet. The closest you can safely get is Losar.

Spiti in May is a landscape of high-contrast photography and raw, winter-ending vibes. However, with the current weather system moving through, your flexibility is your best asset. A sudden hailstorm can turn the Kinnaur highway into a slippery trap, and a fresh dusting of snow at Losar can delay your transit by hours. Respect the mountain's timeline: if the BRO hasn't opened the pass, don't push your luck with a local 4x4. Preparation is the difference between a nightmare in a traffic jam and a serene mountain escape. So, as you finalize your bags and prepare for your spiti trip from delhi, keep these verified road statuses bookmarked to ensure your journey is as smooth as the view from the top.