Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], January 24 : After a prolonged dry spell, Himachal Pradesh witnessed widespread rain and snowfall over the past 24 hours, significantly lowering temperatures across the state and disrupting normal life, even as it raised hopes for farmers, orchardists and the tourism sector.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, light to moderate rain and snowfall occurred at most places, while heavy rain/snow was recorded at a few locations across the state during the last 24 hours.
IMD data shows a marked fall in maximum temperatures at most stations, with values remaining 5 to 12 degrees Celsius below normal, while minimum temperatures also saw an appreciable dip. The lowest minimum temperature in the state was recorded at Kukumseri in Lahaul-Spiti at minus 7.2 degrees Celsius, while Bajaura in Kullu recorded the highest maximum temperature at 18.2 degrees Celsius.
Several regions reported very heavy precipitation. Dharampur recorded 91.4 mm rainfall, Solan 68.6 mm, Kandaghat 67 mm, while Palampur, Una, Nahan and Seobagh also witnessed over 50 mm rainfall. On the snowfall front, Kothi received 105 cm, Gondla 85 cm, Keylong 75 cm, Kufri 66 cm, Manali 45.8 cm, and Shimla recorded around 40 cm of snow.
The extreme weather led IMD to declare severe cold day conditions in Shimla, Manali, Mandi, Bilaspur and Hamirpur, while severe cold wave conditions prevailed in Kangra district. Gusty winds were also observed, with speeds reaching 81 kmph at Narkanda and 70 kmph in Shimla.
The IMD attributed the weather to a western disturbance in the form of a low-pressure area over Jammu and adjoining Pakistan, supported by cyclonic circulation and a strong subtropical westerly jet stream. The department has also warned that a fresh western disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from January 26, which may bring another spell of rain and snow, particularly on January 27, when heavy rain/snow is likely at isolated places over high hills.
Looking ahead, IMD has forecast light to moderate rain and snowfall at many places on January 27, followed by a gradual improvement in weather conditions. Minimum temperatures are expected to rise gradually by 2-3 degrees Celsius, while maximum temperatures may rise by 6-10 degrees Celsius in the coming days. Dry weather is likely to prevail over most parts of the state by January 29 and 30 .
Meanwhile, authorities have advised residents and tourists to remain cautious, particularly in high-altitude and landslide-prone areas, as road blockages, slippery conditions and reduced visibility are likely during periods of heavy snow and rain. Over 600 roads are blocked in the state so far.
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