Shimla, April 26: After back-to-back inaccurate forecasts of rain and gusty winds on April 24 and 25, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh outlook, now indicating a delayed but more defined wet spell for Himachal Pradesh beginning April 28.
The latest bulletin paints a clear contrast to the earlier predictions. The past 24 hours saw only very light rain at isolated places, with most regions remaining dry and temperatures shooting above normal by 3–7°C. Una scorched at 42.2°C, while even hill regions stayed unusually warm.
Dry Today, Heat First — Rain Later.
According to the revised forecast, April 26 will remain dry across the state, with heat wave to severe heat wave conditions likely in low and mid hill districts. The IMD now expects temperatures to rise further by 2–3°C over the next 48 hours before a gradual dip
The real change is pushed ahead.
April 27: Light rain/snow at isolated places.
April 28–30: Light to moderate rain at few places, with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds (up to 40–50 kmph.
May 1–2: Scattered light rain activity continues. Storm Warning Returns — But With a Delay.
The IMD has warned of hailstorms, thunderstorms, and gusty winds particularly from April 28 onwards across districts like Shimla, Kullu, Kangra, Mandi and Chamba. Strong winds are also expected in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti.
The advisory flags possible damage to power lines, flying debris, slippery roads, and reduced visibility — conditions that were earlier predicted but failed to materialise on April 24–25.
Credibility Question After Missed Forecasts.
The revised timeline comes after two days of forecast misses, when warnings of rain and gusty winds largely fell flat, leaving farmers, orchardists, and residents second-guessing advisories.
Now, with a more staggered and cautious projection, IMD appears to be recalibrating its outlook — first bracing the state for heat stress, then rolling in a late April weather system.
For Farmers and Orchardists — A Tight Window
Immediate irrigation and mulching to combat heat stress. Preparation for hail protection (nets/caps) ahead of April 28.
Vigilance against sudden wind damage during storm days
For Himachal, it’s now a waiting game — heat builds first, and if the revised forecast holds, relief may finally arrive, albeit a few days late.
