IMD Predicts Much-Awaited Snow and Rain in Himachal, Ending Drought-Like Conditions...
Shimla, February 18 – If the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) latest forecast holds, Himachal Pradesh is set to receive widespread rain and snowfall from the midnight of February 19 to the forenoon of February 21, with isolated heavy rain and snow on February 20.
The upcoming wet spell, triggered by a Western Disturbance moving east-northeast, is expected to end the cycle of drought gripping the state since January. Farmers, the Jal Shakti department managing drinking water supplies, power producers, the tourism industry, and the horticulture sector, all struggling due to the prolonged dry conditions, are looking at this as a windfall.
"A Big Relief for All": Onkar Chand Sharma
Seeking a duvine intervention Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue, Disaster Management, and Jal Shakti) Onkar Chand Sharma stated that the long spell of dry weather has severely impacted water sources, agriculture, and power generation in the state.
"These rains and snow will end the cycle of drought in Himachal, bringing much-needed relief to all stakeholders—farmers, hydropower producers, the tourism industry, and residents dependent on mountain water sources.
Snowfall in higher reaches will also help recharge glaciers and ensure better water availability in the coming months," he said.
Who Gets What?
Heavy Snowfall Alert (Orange Alert - Feb 20): Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi districts.
Moderate Snowfall & Light Rainfall: Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and higher reaches of Kangra, Chamba, Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Sirmaur.
Tourist Destinations to See Snow: Kufri, Narkanda, Manali, Solang Valley, Dalhousie, Sissu, and even Shimla city could witness fresh snow on February 20.
Plains & Mid-Hills (Yellow Alert): Thunderstorms with lightning expected in Solan, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Una, and lower parts of Kangra, Chamba, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Kullu.
A Much-Needed Boost
With rivers and reservoirs running low, apple orchards facing moisture stress, and wheat crops under threat, this spell of precipitation is expected to recharge water sources and boost soil moisture just in time for crucial crop growth stages. Snowfall in higher reaches will help glacier recharge, ensuring better water availability in summer.
Power producers, struggling with lower hydropower generation due to receding water levels, will also see a boost.
Meanwhile, the tourism industry, hit hard by the lack of snowfall this winter, can expect a surge in visitors as fresh snow blankets popular destinations.
Caution on Roads
The IMD has warned of slippery roads, low visibility, and possible traffic congestion, especially in higher altitudes. Authorities have advised caution while driving, limiting outdoor activities, and following government advisories.
Temperature Fluctuations
Max Temperatures: Drop by 6-7°C on February 20, followed by a 4-5°C rise on February 21-22.
Min Temperatures: Increase by 3-4°C on February 20 but fall again by 3-4°C on February 21-22.
This shift in weather could also trigger cold day conditions in lower and mid-hills, adding to the winter chill.
For now, all eyes are on the skies, as Himachal Pradesh hopes for much-needed snowfall and rain to break the dry spell and restore balance in the mountains.
