The picturesque hill state of Himachal Pradesh is set to shiver under the grip of an intensifying cold wave. The regional meteorological centre has issued a fresh forecast predicting a notable drop in minimum temperatures across most districts over the next few days.
IMD Issues Yellow Alert, Predicts Sharp Temperature Drop
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Shimla has sounded a yellow alert, warning residents and tourists of harsh cold conditions. According to the forecast, minimum temperatures are expected to fall by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius in many parts of the state. The mercury dip will be particularly felt in the higher reaches and interior regions.
On Tuesday, Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti district recorded a frigid low of minus 7.6 degrees Celsius, establishing it as the coldest spot in Himachal. Kalpa in Kinnaur followed closely at minus 1.0 degrees Celsius. Even the state capital, Shimla, experienced a chilly night with the minimum temperature settling at 4.4 degrees Celsius.
Widespread Impact Across Major Towns and Tourist Hubs
The cold wave is not confined to the high-altitude areas alone. Popular tourist destinations and major towns will also experience the biting cold.
- Manali recorded a minimum temperature of 1.4 degrees Celsius.
- Dharamsala, the seat of the Tibetan government-in-exile, saw a low of 5.6 degrees Celsius.
- Sundernagar in Mandi district registered 6.0 degrees Celsius.
- Una recorded 7.0 degrees Celsius, while Nahan in Sirmaur was at 7.6 degrees Celsius.
The IMD has attributed this intensification to dry north-westerly winds prevailing over the plains of northwest India. These winds are causing a significant drop in night temperatures, leading to cold wave to severe cold wave conditions in several areas.
Dry Weather to Prevail, Advisory for Residents and Tourists
The meteorological department has predicted mainly dry weather across the state for the coming days. The absence of any significant western disturbance means no immediate relief from the cold is in sight. This persistent dry and cold spell poses challenges, especially for vulnerable populations and those living in remote, high-altitude villages.
Authorities are advising people to take necessary precautions. This includes wearing adequate woolen clothing, ensuring proper heating arrangements, and taking care of the elderly and children, who are most susceptible to extreme cold. Tourists planning visits to hill stations like Shimla, Manali, Dharamsala, and Dalhousie are urged to check the latest weather updates and pack accordingly for sub-zero conditions in some locations.
The ongoing cold wave underscores the severe winter conditions that Himachal Pradesh encounters annually. With temperatures poised to drop further, the state is bundling up for a prolonged period of intense cold, impacting daily life and travel in its serene mountains.
