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Himachal's Snow Respite Ends Dry Spell, Brings Cold Wave & Travel Woes

After a prolonged dry period, Himachal Pradesh experienced widespread rain and snowfall, drastically lowering temperatures and disrupting normal life. The India Meteorological Department reported temperatures 5 to 12 degrees Celsius below normal, with severe cold day conditions declared in several districts including Shimla and Manali. The weather has led to significant travel disruption, with over 600 roads blocked across the state. A fresh western disturbance is predicted to bring another spell of rain and snow to the region starting January 26.

Key Points: Himachal Snowfall Ends Dry Spell, Triggers Cold Wave & Disruption

  • Widespread rain/snow ends long dry spell
  • Temps 5-12°C below normal, severe cold wave declared
  • Over 600 roads blocked, travel disrupted
  • Fresh western disturbance forecast from Jan 26
2 min read

Cold wave persists following heavy rain, snow in Himachal after long dry spell

Heavy rain & snow hit Himachal after dry spell, dropping temps 5-12°C below normal, blocking 600+ roads, with more snow forecast from Jan 26.

"severe cold day conditions in Shimla, Manali, Mandi, Bilaspur and Hamirpur - IMD"

Shimla, January 24

After a prolonged dry spell, Himachal Pradesh witnessed widespread rain and snowfall over the past 24 hours, significantly lowering temperatures across the state and disrupting normal life, even as it raised hopes for farmers, orchardists and the tourism sector.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, light to moderate rain and snowfall occurred at most places, while heavy rain/snow was recorded at a few locations across the state during the last 24 hours.

IMD data shows a marked fall in maximum temperatures at most stations, with values remaining 5 to 12 degrees Celsius below normal, while minimum temperatures also saw an appreciable dip. The lowest minimum temperature in the state was recorded at Kukumseri in Lahaul-Spiti at minus 7.2 degrees Celsius, while Bajaura in Kullu recorded the highest maximum temperature at 18.2 degrees Celsius.

Several regions reported very heavy precipitation. Dharampur recorded 91.4 mm rainfall, Solan 68.6 mm, Kandaghat 67 mm, while Palampur, Una, Nahan and Seobagh also witnessed over 50 mm rainfall. On the snowfall front, Kothi received 105 cm, Gondla 85 cm, Keylong 75 cm, Kufri 66 cm, Manali 45.8 cm, and Shimla recorded around 40 cm.

The extreme weather led IMD to declare severe cold day conditions in Shimla, Manali, Mandi, Bilaspur and Hamirpur, while severe cold wave conditions prevailed in Kangra district. Gusty winds were also observed, with speeds reaching 81 kmph at Narkanda and 70 kmph in Shimla.

The IMD attributed the weather to a western disturbance, characterised by a low-pressure area over Jammu and adjoining Pakistan, supported by a cyclonic circulation and a strong subtropical westerly jet stream. The department has also warned that a fresh western disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from January 26, bringing another spell of rain and snow, particularly on January 27, when heavy rain/snow is likely at isolated places over high hills.

Looking ahead, IMD has forecast light to moderate rain and snowfall at many places on January 27, followed by a gradual improvement in weather conditions. Minimum temperatures are expected to rise gradually by 2-3 degrees Celsius, while maximum temperatures may rise by 6-10 degrees Celsius in the coming days. Dry weather is likely to prevail over most parts of the state on January 29 and 30.

Meanwhile, authorities have advised residents and tourists to remain cautious, particularly in high-altitude and landslide-prone areas, as road blockages, slippery conditions and reduced visibility are likely during periods of heavy snow and rain. Over 600 roads are blocked in the state so far.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
My family is stuck in Manali, roads are blocked. While the snow is beautiful, the administration needs to be quicker with clearing routes. Over 600 roads blocked is a serious situation for locals and tourists.
D
David E
Visiting from the UK and currently in Shimla. The snowfall is spectacular, truly a winter wonderland. But the warnings are real - it's bitterly cold and the winds are fierce. Tourists should definitely heed the advisories.
A
Arjun K
Minus 7.2 in Lahaul-Spiti! That's harsh. Our jawans posted at the high-altitude borders must be facing extreme conditions. Salute to their resilience. The nation should also think about better infrastructure for these remote areas.
S
Sarah B
The data from IMD is quite detailed. It's good to see such precise forecasting. However, I hope the communication of these warnings reaches every village, especially the elderly and those in isolated areas.
V
Vikram M
After such a long dry period, this is nature's way of balancing things. The rivers and reservoirs will get replenished. But another western disturbance coming? Hope it doesn't cause too much disruption. Stay safe, Himachal!
K
Kavya N
As a climate researcher, this pattern of long dry spells followed by intense precipitation is

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