Shimla, January 27:
An active western disturbance brought fresh rain and widespread snowfall across Himachal Pradesh during the past 24 hours, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue alerts for heavy snow, thunderstorms, hail and cold wave conditions in several districts.
According to the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, light to moderate rain and snowfall was recorded at many places till 8:30 am on Tuesday. Gondla in Lahaul-Spiti received the highest snowfall of 22 cm, followed by Kukumseri (21.3 cm), Kothi (20 cm), Koksar (19 cm), Hansa (15 cm), Keylong (12.5 cm), Kalpa (5.5 cm), Moorang (4 cm), Sangla (1.8 cm) and Jot (1 cm).
Rainfall was reported mainly from mid and lower hill districts, with Bharmaur recording the highest rainfall of 14 mm, followed by Saloni (9.3 mm), Chhatrari (8.9 mm), Manali (6 mm) and Kasol (4 mm).
Minimum temperatures rose slightly at most stations, though severe cold continued in high hill areas. Tabo recorded the lowest minimum temperature at minus 8.9°C, while Paonta Sahib registered the highest maximum temperature at 23°C. Gusty winds reaching 52 kmph were reported from Kufri and Narkanda, while thunderstorms with lightning were observed in Shimla. Shallow fog was also reported from Kalpa.
Heavy Snow, Thunderstorm and Cold Day Warning
The IMD has forecast light to moderate rain and snowfall at most places across the state on January 27, with one or two spells of heavy snow likely at isolated places in high hill districts including Chamba, Kullu, Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti.
Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, hailstorms and strong winds gusting up to 60 kmph are also likely in several low and mid-hill districts.
Cold day conditions are expected in Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, Solan and Sirmaur, while cold wave conditions may prevail at isolated places from January 28 to 30. Dense fog is also likely during this period in the plains and lower hills.
Dry Spell Followed by Another Disturbance
Weather is expected to remain dry across most parts of Himachal Pradesh on January 29. However, another western disturbance is likely to affect the region from the night of January 30, bringing fresh rain and snowfall on February 1 and 2.
Advisory
The weather department has advised people to avoid unnecessary travel in snowbound areas, remain cautious of slippery roads and low visibility, and follow traffic advisories. Farmers and orchardists have been advised to protect crops from hail, while residents have been urged to take precautions against extreme cold and protect livestock.
