Himachal Pradesh Faces Dry Spell, Snow Hopes Dwindle for New Year

Dry Conditions Persist in Himachal Pradesh

Pallavi Sharma
DHARAMSHALA: The anticipation of a White Christmas has largely faded in Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, and other hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, as the region grapples with an extended dry spell.

Following a brief period of light snowfall at some high-altitude areas on December 21, the weather has remained predominantly clear, contributing to a significant lack of rain and snow that has lasted nearly two months.

While a few isolated higher elevations experienced light snowfall, the mid-hill and lower regions, including the plains, continue to endure dry conditions. This lack of widespread precipitation has raised concerns among farmers and orchardists, as soil moisture levels are critically low and water sources are under stress.

Forecast for Rain and Snow

Rain, snow likely only at higher reaches

The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has suggested a potential shift in weather patterns as the year concludes. The forecast indicates that light rain and snowfall could occur in the higher hill areas on December 28 and 29. However, the mid-hill and lower regions are expected to remain dry, meaning residents there may have to wait longer for any relief.

From December 28 to 30, some locations in the higher reaches might see very light precipitation, while the remainder of the week is anticipated to stay clear. No significant changes in maximum and minimum temperatures are expected over the next few days.

Chilly Temperatures Recorded

Minimum temperatures across the state indicate a growing chill, with Kukumseri being the coldest at minus 6.2°C, followed by Kalpa at minus 0.6°C and Tabo at minus 4.7°C. Shimla recorded a minimum of 6.5°C, while Manali stood at 2.3°C. A total of 13 locations in the state reported minimum temperatures below 5°C.

Fog Alerts Issued

Dense fog alert for lower hills and plains

Despite the lack of snowfall, cold conditions have intensified, especially in the lower hills and plains. The Meteorological office has issued an orange alert for dense to very dense fog from December 24 to 28 during the early morning and late-night hours. Districts such as Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Solan, and Sirmaur are likely to be affected.

Bilaspur, particularly around the Bhakra Dam reservoir, and the Balh valley in Mandi district are expected to experience persistent fog during morning and evening hours. Authorities have advised motorists to exercise caution, as reduced visibility could disrupt traffic and daily activities.

Impact on Agriculture and Tourism

Dry spell hits agriculture and horticulture

The ongoing dry weather is adversely affecting agriculture, horticulture, and tourism. After minimal rain and snowfall in October, Himachal Pradesh saw almost no precipitation in November, with December continuing this dry trend. Farmers are facing challenges in sowing rabi crops like wheat and peas due to insufficient moisture, while crops already planted are showing signs of damage, particularly in areas lacking irrigation.

The horticulture and tourism sectors are also feeling the strain, as the absence of snowfall has reduced winter tourist numbers and raised concerns about the chilling hours necessary for apple orchards. With sunny weather prevailing across Shimla and other regions on Wednesday, all eyes are now on the final week of December, as residents hope that the New Year may finally bring some snow to the mountains.