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Himachal Feels a Winter Chill in June as Snowfall and Rain Drive Temperatures Down by Six Degrees
Shimla, June 4:
Himachal Pradesh is experiencing an unusual weather shift in the first week of June, as heavy rainfall in the plains and fresh snowfall in higher altitudes have brought a sharp dip in temperatures. The unexpected cold snap has left residents reaching for their woollens, making it feel more like winter than summer.
According to the Meteorological Department, the state’s average maximum temperature has dropped nearly six degrees below normal. In Shimla, the day’s maximum temperature was recorded at just 20°C — 5.4 degrees below average, a reading more typical of December.
Several other regions in the state also reported significant drops in temperature: Kalpa recorded 13.7°C, Manali 18.8°C, Kasauli 19.9°C, Tabo 16.6°C, Dharamshala 26.6°C, and even Una, one of the warmest districts, saw temperatures limited to 35.6°C.
Fresh Snowfall in the Hills, Hailstorm in Shimla
Snowfall was reported from high-altitude regions including the peaks of Manali, Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and Chamba’s Sach Pass. In Shimla, the weather turned abruptly on Tuesday afternoon, with a brief but intense spell of rain and hail, further cooling the air and prompting locals to bundle up.
Karsog Records Heaviest Rainfall
Among all regions, Karsog in Mandi district recorded the highest rainfall at 6 cm. Shimla’s popular tourist spot Kufri saw 5 cm, while the city itself received 4 cm. Other areas including Naina Devi, Kahu, and Bilaspur each reported 3 cm of rainfall. Up to 2 cm was recorded in Jubbarhatti, Paonta, Barthi, Sarahan, Kasauli, Jatton Barrage, Bharari, Aghar, Rampur Bushahr, Gohar, and Katola.
Light showers were also reported in Pandoh, Chopal, Mandi, Kandaghat, Dharampur, Pachhad, Solan, Bhuntar, Siobagh, Banjar, Bharmour, Nichar, BBMB, and Sundernagar.
Weather Likely to Remain Unsettled for Next 48 Hours
The Shimla Meteorological Centre has forecast continued unstable weather across many parts of the state on June 5, with warnings of thunderstorms, rain, and lightning. While no specific alerts are issued for June 6, the outlook remains cloudy. Clear skies are expected to return between June 7 and 10. Meanwhile, tourists and residents have been advised to stay alert and take necessary precautions.