Shimla, March 20 : The India Meteorological Department has reported a sharp dip in maximum temperatures across Himachal Pradesh over the past 24 hours, accompanied by widespread rain and snowfall in several parts of the state.
According to the weather bulletin issued by the Meteorological Centre in Shimla on Friday, March 20, 2026, maximum temperatures fell by 2°C to 5°C at most stations and remained significantly below normal by 3°C to 12°C. However, minimum temperatures showed no major change, staying 2°C to 3°C above normal in low hills and plains, while remaining near normal in mid and high hill regions.
Rain, Snow Lash Several Areas
Heavy to moderate rainfall was recorded in many parts of the state till 8:30 AM on Friday. Manali recorded the highest rainfall at 57 mm, followed by Palampur (49.2 mm), Seobagh (39 mm), Jogindernagar (38 mm), and Sandhole (37.8 mm). Kasauli and Sarahan also witnessed significant precipitation.
In higher reaches, fresh snowfall was reported, with Hansa receiving 25 cm, Gondhla 21 cm, Kalpa 17 cm, Keylong 15 cm, and Kukumseri 13.2 cm.
Temperature Extremes
Kalpa recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 0°C, while Paonta Sahib registered the highest maximum temperature at 26°C on Thursday, March 19.
In Shimla, the minimum temperature settled at 6.6°C, with 29.3 mm rainfall recorded. Manali remained cold at 3°C, while Dharamshala and Solan recorded minimum temperatures of 9.2°C and 10°C respectively.
Weather Activity and Warnings
The department reported shallow fog in Mandi and thunderstorm/lightning activity in Kufri during the past 24 hours. No hailstorm or gusty winds were recorded.
For Friday (March 20), the IMD has issued a warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds with speeds of 40–50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph at isolated places. Heavy rain and snowfall are also likely at isolated locations.
Western Disturbance to Impact from March 22
The IMD has forecast that a fresh, feeble Western Disturbance will affect northwest India, including Himachal Pradesh, from Sunday, March 22, 2026. This system is likely to trigger further weather activity in the region in the coming days.
From March 20 to March 26, the state is expected to witness intermittent weather activity, with thunderstorms and lightning likely at isolated places on multiple days, though no major widespread warnings have been issued beyond Day 1.
The department has advised residents, especially in higher reaches, to remain cautious amid ongoing rain, snowfall, and potential thunderstorm activity.
