A fresh bout of winter weather has gripped Himachal Pradesh, transforming its lofty peaks into a picturesque winter wonderland while sending mercury levels plunging across the state. The higher reaches, particularly in Lahaul and Spiti districts, have been blanketed under a new layer of snow, marking a significant shift in weather conditions.
Keylong, the administrative headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti, recorded a minimum temperature of a bone-chilling -2.4 degrees Celsius. Not far behind, Kalpa in Kinnaur district shivered at -0.6 degrees Celsius. This sudden temperature drop comes as these high-altitude towns experienced moderate snowfall throughout the day, creating challenging conditions for residents and travelers alike.
Mid-Hills Experience Widespread Rain
While the higher hills received snow, the mid and lower hills witnessed widespread rainfall. State capital Shimla experienced rain, with the meteorological centre reporting a minimum temperature of 8.2 degrees Celsius. The combination of precipitation and cloudy skies has led to a noticeable chill across the region.
Other parts of the state also felt the winter's bite. Sundernagar recorded a minimum of 10.8 degrees Celsius, while Bhuntar saw 9.4 degrees Celsius. The mercury settled at 9.0 degrees Celsius in Nahan and 12.0 degrees Celsius in Una, indicating a statewide cooling trend.
Weather Forecast and Advisory
The local meteorological department has predicted that this wet spell is likely to continue, with forecasts indicating:
- Light to moderate rainfall in low and mid-hills
- Snowfall in high-altitude areas
- Generally cloudy skies across the state
- No significant change in minimum temperatures expected
This weather development serves as a clear indication that winter is tightening its grip on the mountain state. Residents and tourists are advised to take necessary precautions, especially those traveling to higher altitude regions where snow accumulation may affect road conditions.
