Shimla, February 2 After a brief spell of sunshine, Himachal Pradesh is set to experience another round of extreme winter conditions. According to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, a western disturbance will become active in the state from February 3, leading to widespread rain and snowfall across various regions. This weather shift is expected to persist from February 3 to February 5, bringing moderate to heavy snowfall in higher altitude areas and rain in mid and lower-altitude districts.
Yellow Alert Issued for February 4 Due to Storms and Lightning
The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for February 4, warning of strong winds and lightning in some parts of the state. This weather pattern is expected to intensify the cold wave conditions, especially in higher altitude regions. Heavy snowfall in these areas may disrupt normal life, causing road blockages and impacting transportation.
The drop in temperature due to rainfall and snowfall is expected to make conditions harsher across the state. However, relief is anticipated after February 6, as weather conditions are likely to stabilize between February 6 and February 8.
Extreme Cold Grips Lahaul-Spiti, Several Areas Below Freezing Point
The cold wave remains unrelenting in the tribal districts of Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur, where the temperatures continue to plunge below freezing point. Light snowfall was recorded in the higher reaches of the state last night, intensifying the cold conditions.
Kukumseri in Lahaul-Spiti emerged as the coldest location in Himachal Pradesh, recording a bone-chilling minimum temperature of -9.9°C. Similarly, Tabo recorded -7.8°C, while Keylong reported -6°C. In Kinnaur district, Kalpa registered a minimum temperature of -2.3°C, highlighting the severity of the cold spell gripping the region.
Tourist Hotspots Shimla and Manali Witness a Dip in Temperature
Popular tourist destinations like Shimla and Manali are also experiencing a sharp dip in temperature. Manali recorded a minimum temperature of 2.3°C on Sunday, while Shimla stood at 4°C. The cold wave has also extended to the lower plains, where temperatures remain below normal levels. According to meteorological reports, the state’s average minimum temperature has dropped by -0.9°C over the last 24 hours.
Western Disturbance to Bring Significant Changes in Weather
According to Kuldeep Srivastava, Director of the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, the active western disturbance from February 3 will cause a significant shift in weather patterns. This system will lead to widespread snowfall in the higher reaches and moderate rain in lower regions, further lowering temperatures.
“We expect an increase in rain and snowfall activity from February 3 to February 5, with the possibility of heavy snowfall in upper reaches. This could cause disruptions in normal life, particularly in remote and high-altitude areas,” Srivastava said.
As the cold intensifies, residents and tourists are advised to take necessary precautions, especially while traveling to higher altitudes. The administration has been alerted to remain prepared for possible disruptions due to heavy snowfall and adverse weather conditions.
Himachal Pradesh to Witness Rain and Snowfall for Next Three Days, Alert Issued
