The video captures such extraordinary spectacle in an image soon shot, that soon went viral and caused audiences to gasp with delight at the sheer nature that seemed unique, but that also aroused fear as well as awe for just how severe its climate would be in the future.
The Viral Video
The video shows the snow that falls from a mountain range in the western Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. On popular platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram these videos showed a great flow of snow, like a white river running along a cliffside, along with loose ice and rocks and debris.
Finally a good amount of snow in the Himalayas .After yesterday’s snowfall almost all areas are snow covered now.
— Nikhil saini (@iNikhilsaini) January 28, 2026
You have seen water flowing, today check snow flowing through the stream.
📍Pangi Chamba pic.twitter.com/U0ZcCQsQXV
The storm surge triggered by strong snowfall during the winter possibly while snowsliding or glacial activity happens displays the power of natural resources as blunt force at altitude. Though lovely they are a clear warning of dangers of big winter in mountainous areas.
Location and Impact
The incident was reportedly reported in Lahaul-Spiti or Kullu districts vulnerable to the violent winter weather. Since the start of this month the heavy snowfall has made the everyday activities of the population impossible and there are roadways such as Manali-Leh Highway, and the transportation network to other villages at the other side of the village are restricted.
Warnings of heavy to very heavy snow have been issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) in Himachal, with the threats of avalanches and potential road closure and the isolation of people.
Public and Official Response
Authorities have warned them NOT to enter sensitive areas such as Rohtang Pass and Baralacha La, along with the pass areas near incline and high altitude pass area. Emergency responders will be on standby, and clearing snow will open main lines. At the same time, responses to the video, which went viral, range from incredulous to horrified, with many users worried about local residents’ safety and the extremity of current weather.
Broader Implications
With weather patterns changing, such extreme snow events are becoming more common; however, extreme snow events have often been less common in the past, experts say. Himachal Pradesh is a winter destination favourite – but it is trying to manage the flood of tourists who visit the area over the ski season and take care of themselves under an unpredictable weather regime.
The "river of snow" phenomenon proves the importance of preparedness and the cultivation of eco-tourism as a practice. A video that has now spread so far, it’s a visual expression of nature’s beauty but also its peril: an enunciation that all should respect the mountains. When you’re faced with severe weather, heed these warnings.
