Cold Wave Hits Himachal Pradesh as Snowfall Forecasted
Severe Cold Conditions in Himachal Pradesh
Pallavi Sharma
Shimla:
Recent light snowfall in the higher elevations of Himachal Pradesh has exacerbated cold weather across various districts, particularly in Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti, where a significant cold wave has been felt. Residents, especially in tribal and high-altitude regions, are facing extreme chill, with temperatures dropping below freezing.
Temperature Records and Variations
According to meteorological reports, Kukumseri and Tabo recorded minimum temperatures below zero, highlighting the severe winter conditions in the area. In contrast, Shimla experienced an unusually warm night, with temperatures reaching 12.2°C, the highest in the state.
Historical data shows that a similar temperature was last noted in December 1991 when Shimla's night temperature hit 13.8°C. On Friday, the capital city enjoyed sunshine mixed with light cloud cover.
Rain and Snowfall Expected to Aid Farmers
The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has predicted widespread rain and snowfall over the next two days, offering hope to farmers and orchardists who have been struggling with extended dry spells.
Recent weeks of low precipitation have negatively impacted crops throughout the state. In the plains and lower hill areas, persistent fog has harmed vegetable and onion crops, raising concerns among farmers.
Temperature Fluctuations Across Districts
Nighttime temperatures have shown significant variation across Himachal Pradesh. While Kukumseri recorded a chilling -4.1°C and Tabo -2.3°C, many mid-hill and lower regions experienced milder temperatures. Manali reported a minimum of 4.6°C, Kalpa 3.4°C, Sundernagar 2.7°C, and Bhuntar 3.5°C. Dharamshala recorded 8.8°C, while Mandi and Kangra noted 6.2°C and 5.7°C, respectively. Warmer nights were observed in Kasauli (11.7°C), Kufri (10.3°C), and Jubbarhatti (9.2°C).
The weather department indicated that minimum temperatures in lower, mid-hill, and plain areas are expected to remain stable over the next 48 hours. However, in the higher mountainous regions, nighttime temperatures may decrease by 2-4°C within the next 24 hours. A gradual decline of 3-6°C in minimum temperatures is anticipated across the state over the next two to three days, with maximum temperatures also likely to drop by 3-7°C.
Western Disturbance to Bring Precipitation
An active western disturbance is projected to bring rain and snowfall to mid and high-altitude regions on December 20 and 21. Districts expected to be impacted include Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti. Meanwhile, dense fog has disrupted daily activities in Bilaspur, Sirmaur, and parts of Mandi district, especially near reservoirs. Reduced visibility during morning and evening hours has slowed traffic, with vehicles moving cautiously on several routes.
A yellow alert for fog has been issued for districts near reservoirs on December 19 and 20. Weather conditions are predicted to improve afterward, with clear skies expected across the state from December 22 to 25.
Daytime Temperatures Decline Amid Cloud Cover
Cloudy weather on Thursday resulted in a noticeable drop in daytime temperatures across much of the state, with some areas experiencing a decrease of up to five degrees. Shimla recorded a maximum temperature of 20.2°C, Dharamshala 20.0°C, and Una 20.2°C.
Solan noted 21.0°C, while Mandi and Bilaspur recorded 18.6°C and 17.8°C, respectively. Hamirpur reached a daytime high of 20.4°C, indicating cooler conditions compared to earlier in the week.