Weather Update: Fresh Snowfall in Himachal Pradesh as Western Disturbance Hits

Snowfall in High Altitudes Brings Joy and Concern

Shimla, 08 December: A shift in weather patterns, triggered by a western disturbance, has brought fresh snowfall to the higher regions of Himachal Pradesh. Snow is currently falling in the higher altitudes of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Kullu, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Chamba districts. Additionally, snowfall continues in the Atal Tunnel Rohtang, contributing to the winter landscape of the state. In response to the changing weather, the Kullu district administration has issued an advisory, urging tourists to avoid traveling to higher altitudes due to safety concerns.

First Snowfall of the Season Brings Smiles to Upper Shimla

The first snowfall of the season has arrived in Upper Shimla, with fresh snow gracing areas like Chaupal. This early snowfall has brought joy to local gardeners and tourism businesses, signaling a promising winter season ahead. Light snowfall is also being reported in Theog and Narkanda, areas near Shimla city. The temperature has dropped significantly, and cold winds are sweeping through Shimla city, causing intermittent snowfall and leaving people shivering from the chill. In Sirmaur, Churdhar has also witnessed snowfall, adding to the wintry charm of the region.

Predictions of Heavy Snowfall Create Excitement Among Tourists

The Meteorological Department has forecasted the possibility of heavy snowfall in the higher regions of Himachal Pradesh later in the night. This has generated excitement among tourists and locals alike, as they eagerly anticipate the snowfall. However, the plains are expected to remain dry with no rain forecasted. Districts such as Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Kangra, Una, and Mandi experienced dry conditions throughout the day, with clear skies in most areas.

Farmers Concerned Over Dry Weather and Crop Damage

While the snowfall in the mountains brings joy, it also highlights a troubling issue for farmers in the plains and central regions of Himachal Pradesh. The lack of rain over the past two months has led to growing concerns about crops, especially wheat, which may be at risk due to the dry conditions. Many farmers were unable to sow wheat, as they awaited rainfall. The absence of rain has also reduced the water levels in drinking water sources and is affecting the generation of hydroelectric power, exacerbating the challenges for the state.

Tourists Awaited Snowfall in Shimla and Manali

With the Meteorological Department’s forecast predicting snowfall in Shimla and Manali over the weekend, a large influx of tourists visited both destinations in hopes of witnessing the first snowfall. While Shimla and Manali were bustling with tourists on Sunday, they were met with disappointment as the snowfall did not occur during the day. The tourism industry, however, remains optimistic, as the snowfall later in the evening brings a fresh wave of enthusiasm.

Cold Wave Sweeps Across the State, Mercury Drops Below Freezing

The cold wave continues to intensify across Himachal Pradesh, with temperatures in many areas falling to sub-zero levels. On Sunday, Tabo in Lahaul-Spiti recorded the lowest temperature of -13.1°C, while other regions like Kukumseri (-6.9°C), Reckong Peo (-1°C), and Narkanda (-0.8°C) also experienced severe cold. Cities including Shimla, Manali, Solan, Bilaspur, and Kangra reported temperatures close to freezing, heightening the chill in the air.

Clear Weather Expected from 11 to 14 December

According to the latest forecast by the Meteorological Department, the weather will remain clear from December 11 to 14, with no significant weather disturbances expected during this period. However, the next 24 hours could see more snowfall in the mountains and rain in the plains, as the weather continues to shift. As the state braces for the coming cold days, the excitement for more snowfall and its impact on both locals and tourists continues to grow.