Himachal Pradesh Experiences Light Snowfall as New Year Approaches

As the New Year approaches, Himachal Pradesh is experiencing light snowfall in higher regions, raising hopes among tourists. The Meteorological Department has issued alerts for further weather changes, including potential rain and snowfall in various districts. With temperatures dropping significantly, cold wave conditions are intensifying. This article provides a detailed overview of the current weather situation and forecasts for the coming days, including expected temperature fluctuations and weather disturbances. Stay tuned for more updates as the winter season unfolds in this picturesque region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 1, 2026, 17:43 IST

Weather Changes Bring Snow to Himachal Pradesh

Pallavi Sharma
DHARAMSHALA:
As the Meteorological Department issued a weather alert, various regions in Himachal Pradesh experienced notable changes, including light snowfall in higher altitudes, which has sparked excitement among tourists for the New Year. Fresh snow was observed in areas like Lahaul-Spiti, Rohtang Pass, and near the south portal of the Atal Tunnel, signaling a brief yet welcome winter phase in these locales.

The shift in weather has also resulted in a significant drop in temperatures. Six locations across the state recorded minimum temperatures below 5°C, with Kukumseri noted as the coldest, hitting a low of minus 3.4°C. Tabo reported a similar temperature. In contrast, Solan recorded the highest maximum temperature at 19.5°C.

With the weather change, cold wave conditions are intensifying in several areas. The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued warnings about potential weather disturbances in the upcoming days.

According to Sandip Sharma, a scientist at the Meteorological Centre, light to moderate rain or snowfall is anticipated in various parts of the state on January 1. Districts such as Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Kangra, and Kullu may experience deteriorating weather conditions. Isolated locations may also see light rain or snowfall on January 2, 5, and 6.

During this time, cold wave conditions are expected to persist in different regions, with dense fog likely to envelop low-lying areas during late night and early morning hours. The weather is predicted to remain mostly clear for the rest of the week.

The department has forecast a further decrease in minimum temperatures over the next two days. Many mid and high hill areas may experience a drop of 4 to 7°C, while lower hills and plains could see a decline of 3 to 5°C. Following this period, temperatures are expected to gradually rise by 3 to 5°C. Maximum temperatures are also likely to decrease by approximately 3 to 5°C in several areas over the next three to four days.

On the temperature chart, Shimla recorded a minimum of 8.7°C, Sundernagar 4.8°C, Bhuntar 5.1°C, Kalpa 2.1°C, Dharamshala 6.8°C, Una and Nahan both at 7°C, Palampur 7°C, Solan 5.2°C, Manali 6.7°C, and Kangra 7.8°C, among others.

For daytime temperatures, Shimla noted a maximum of 15.4°C, Sundernagar 16°C, Dharamshala 17°C, Nahan 17.8°C, Solan 17.5°C, while Kukumseri remained the coldest with a maximum of just 4.2°C.