Himachal Pradesh Weather Update: Fresh Snowfall and New Year Predictions

Fresh Snowfall in Himachal Pradesh

Pallavi Sharma
Shimla: The higher altitudes of Himachal Pradesh have recently experienced fresh snowfall, which has heightened the cold wave conditions. As the New Year approaches, many are curious whether popular hill stations like Shimla and Manali will also see snow.

According to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, a shift in weather patterns is anticipated starting Tuesday, with rain and snowfall expected across various regions of the state from December 30 to January 2.

Recent snowfall has been recorded in areas such as Rohtang Pass, Shinkula Pass, and the Chandra valley in Lahaul, resulting in a significant drop in temperatures in these higher regions. While tourists are thrilled by the snow in elevated areas, the lower regions are facing cold winds and thick fog.

Fog Disrupts Daily Life in Lower Districts

In districts such as Kangra, Mandi, and Bilaspur, dense fog covered many areas on Monday morning and evening, leading to reduced visibility and impacting road traffic. The chill has intensified across the plains and mid-hill regions, although some relief was felt during the day when sunshine broke through the clouds. However, temperatures dropped again by evening, contributing to the wintry atmosphere.

Nighttime temperatures in the higher regions have been hovering near freezing, further reinforcing the cold wave.

Rain and Snow Forecast Until January 2

The Meteorological Centre has predicted rain and snowfall in eight mid and high hill districts from December 30 to January 2. Higher altitude areas are likely to see snowfall, while mid and lower hill regions may experience rainfall. A more active western disturbance is expected to impact the weather on December 31 and January 1, potentially worsening conditions and causing further temperature drops.

As this weather system strengthens, the New Year is likely to commence with cold conditions accompanied by rain and snowfall in various areas.

Tourists Anticipate a Snowy New Year at Rohtang

The recent snowfall in the upper regions has heightened tourist excitement, particularly in Manali and its surroundings. At Rohtang Pass, located at an elevation of 13,050 feet, visitors may have the chance to ring in the New Year amidst snow. The district administration has temporarily permitted all types of vehicles to access the pass, depending on weather conditions.

According to official guidelines, tourists with valid permits can travel towards Rohtang between 10 am and 12 noon and must return to Manali by 2 pm from the Madhi check post. Access will be halted immediately if weather conditions worsen.

Previously, only four-wheel-drive vehicles were allowed to reach Rohtang, but due to the lack of recent snowfall, restrictions have been relaxed until January 2. This decision has provided relief to taxi operators, who anticipate an influx of tourists over the next couple of days as people flock to Manali to welcome the New Year, hoping for snowfall in the higher regions.