Himachal Pradesh experienced widespread rainfall and snowfall over the past 24 hours, with temperatures in several areas remaining above normal, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Meteorological Centre in Shimla reported on Friday.
The IMD said minimum temperatures in low hills, plains, and high hill stations rose by 2–8°C, while mid-hill stations saw a drop of 2–6°C over the last 24 hours. Low and high hill stations recorded minimum temperatures 3–5°C above normal, whereas mid-hill stations were 2–3°C below normal. Maximum temperatures showed little change at most locations, remaining 2–6°C above normal at many places.
Tabo in Lahaul-Spiti recorded the lowest minimum temperature in the state at –4.2°C, while Neri in Hamirpur district registered the highest maximum at 25.4°C.
Significant rainfall was reported at Bharwain (25 mm), Amb (21 mm), Aghar (17.6 mm), Kandaghat (17 mm), Pachhad (15.3 mm), and Rajgarh (14 mm). Snowfall was recorded in several higher reaches, with Kothi receiving 15 cm, Gondla 12 cm, Kukumseri 6.8 cm, Jot 6 cm, Saloni 5 cm, Manali 4.8 cm, Keylong 4 cm, Kufri 4 cm, and Shimla 0.6 cm.
The IMD also reported isolated thunderstorms in Sundernagar, Kangra, Shimla, Murari Devi, and Jubbarhatti. Strong gusty winds were observed, with Narkanda recording speeds up to 87 kmph, followed by Kufri (67 kmph), Seobagh (65 kmph), and Mashobra (59 kmph). No cold-wave or cold-day conditions were reported during this period.
The forecast indicates that weather conditions are likely to remain unstable over the next few days, with isolated to scattered precipitation expected across parts of the state. Heavy rain or snowfall may occur at isolated locations on January 23. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 40–50 kmph are also possible.
The IMD further noted that a fresh western disturbance is expected to affect northwest India, including Himachal Pradesh, from January 26, potentially triggering renewed weather activity. Residents and tourists are advised to exercise caution, particularly in higher reaches and wind-prone areas, due to snowfall, strong winds, and rapidly changing weather conditions.
— ANI
