Himachal Pradesh Anticipates Snowfall as Western Disturbance Approaches
Snowfall Expected in Higher Regions
Pallavi Sharma
DHARAMSHALA: After experiencing an extended dry period lasting over two months, the weather in Himachal Pradesh is poised for a shift just in time for the New Year, sparking hopes for snowfall in elevated areas. The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has announced the arrival of a new western disturbance starting December 30, which is expected to finally end the prolonged dry spell across the mountainous regions.
On Friday, dark clouds loomed over Shimla accompanied by a chilly breeze, but Saturday brought back sunny and bright weather.
According to the latest weather predictions, the high-altitude regions of Chamba, Lahaul-Spiti, and Kullu districts are likely to experience snowfall over the next three days. This anticipated weather change has captured the attention of locals, the administration, and tourism stakeholders, all eagerly awaiting the winter season's true arrival.
Meteorologists indicate that the western disturbance entering the area on December 30 will first affect the higher elevations. On that day, isolated locations in the mid-hill areas may see light rain or snowfall, with the impact expected to intensify on December 31 and January 1.
Light Rain Forecasted in Lower Districts
Light rain likely at isolated places in Kangra, Mandi, Shimla districts
During this period, several high-altitude spots in Chamba, Lahaul-Spiti, and Kullu are predicted to receive light to moderate snowfall. Additionally, light rain may occur in isolated areas of Kangra, Mandi, and Shimla districts.
In Kullu and Kinnaur, snowfall is anticipated primarily in the higher reaches, while lower districts such as Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Sirmaur are expected to remain cloudy with minimal chances of rain.
If the forecast proves accurate, tourists celebrating the New Year in the hills may be welcomed by snow-covered vistas, a sight that the hospitality industry has been eagerly anticipating after a dry start to the winter season.
Temperature Drop Expected Statewide
Temperature likely to dip across the state
With consecutive days of snowfall anticipated, both maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to decrease by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius throughout the state. Weather officials noted that temperatures will remain relatively stable until December 29, with daytime temperatures slightly above normal in many areas due to clear skies and sunshine.
However, once snowfall commences in the upper regions, a significant drop in temperatures is anticipated, which will likely have a cooling effect even in the lower districts.
Fog Alerts Issued for Lower Districts
Fog alert issued for several districts
While snowfall is anticipated in the mountains, dense fog continues to pose challenges in several lower districts. The Meteorological Centre has issued an orange alert for dense fog in Bilaspur at isolated locations until December 29, followed by a yellow alert on December 30. Yellow alerts for fog have also been issued for Una, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Solan, and Sirmaur until December 30.
A senior scientist at the Meteorological Centre in Shimla reported that foggy conditions have already been observed in Bilaspur, Sundernagar, and parts of Mandi, with similar conditions expected in Kangra’s Jawali, Fatehpur, and Indora areas, as well as Paonta Sahib in Sirmaur.