Himachal Pradesh to Witness Six Days of Rain and Snowfall, Yellow Alert Issued

Shimla, January 28: After a prolonged dry spell, Himachal Pradesh is set to experience an extended period of rain and snowfall starting January 29, lasting through February 3. The Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rain in the plains and significant snowfall in the higher reaches of the state. A yellow alert has been issued for January 31 and February 1 due to anticipated thunderstorms and lightning.

Two active Western Disturbances are expected to impact the region, the first starting on January 29, followed by the second on February 1.

Colder Days Ahead: Relief for Farmers

Snowfall in the hilly regions is likely to intensify the cold wave, while plains will also witness a drop in temperatures. January 2025 has so far recorded 80% less rainfall than normal, leaving farmers and orchard owners worried about their crops, especially wheat and apple orchards. The upcoming precipitation provides much-needed relief for agriculture and horticulture sectors.

Sunny Days, Chilly Nights

Over the past few days, Himachal Pradesh has experienced sunny weather during the day, while nights have remained exceptionally cold. In the tribal regions, temperatures have plunged well below freezing:

• Tabo (Lahaul-Spiti): -8.8°C
• Kukumseri: -6.2°C
• Keylong: -7.1°C

In the plains, temperatures have hovered close to zero:

• Una: 0.8°C
• Sundernagar: 1.4°C
• Hamirpur & Bilaspur: 1.7°C
• Mandi: 2.1°C
• Manali: 1.5°C

Interestingly, Shimla recorded a higher minimum temperature of 8.6°C, making its nights warmer than many plains.

Key Temperature Observations

• Bhuntar & Kalpa: 0.4°C
• Dharamshala: 5°C
• Nahan & Kufri: 7.3°C
• Narendra & Bharmour: 4.7°C
• Reckong Peo: 2.4°C
• Siyobagh: 1°C

Widespread Rain and Snowfall Expected

Starting February 1, widespread rain and snowfall are likely to affect the entire state:

• Heavy snowfall: Higher altitudes in Lahaul-Spiti, Kullu, Kinnaur, Chamba, and Shimla districts.
• Significant rain: Plains and lower areas, including Kangra, Mandi, Solan, Sirmaur, Hamirpur, and Bilaspur.

Yellow Alert for January 31 and February 1

The yellow alert warns of:

• Strong winds and thunderstorms
• Lightning in select areas
• Risk of slippery roads and landslides in higher altitudes

Travelers in snow-bound regions are advised to exercise caution, as snow and rainfall may lead to road blockages and increased landslide risks.

Himachal Pradesh to Witness Six Days of Rain and Snowfall, Yellow Alert Issued