Himachal Pradesh Weather: IMD issues orange alert; heavy snowfall, cold wave predicted

Himachal Weather Forecast: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued heavy snowfall and cold waves across Himachal Pradesh, issuing an orange alert for Saturday, December 28, 2024.

This advisory comes as the state grapples with significant weather changes, including heavy rainfall and snowfall across six districts, including Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Shimla, and Kinnaur.

According to Shobhit Katiyar, senior scientist of Himachal Pradesh Meteorological Department, significant weather activity is being observed in the districts of the state since Friday morning.

“Himachal Pradesh has been experiencing light to moderate rainfall in the plains, while snowfall commenced in mid and higher-altitude areas around noon. Snowfall continues in higher reaches of Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Kangra, and Kullu, as well as eastern parts of the state, including Shimla,” Katiyar said.

“Plains like Solan, Hamirpur, and Una are recording continuous rainfall, and these conditions are likely to persist until the morning of December 29,” he adds.

The temperature drop was observed, with temperatures declining by 5-6 degrees Celsius in just half an hour in the afternoon on December 27.

Hailstorms and rain are also anticipated in districts such as Solan and Sirmaur starting tonight.

Himachal Pradesh Weather Forecast: Heavy snowfall expected in higher altitudes

High-altitude regions in six districts are bracing for heavy snowfall with intensifying conditions expected by morning. Light to moderate snowfall is forecast across most parts of the state on December 28.

In Shimla, temperatures hovered around 5 degress Celsius on Friday (December 28). However, after December 29, minimum temperatures are projected to decline sharply. 

On Friday, Shimla experienced a drop from 13 degrees Celsius on December 26 to approximately 7 degress Celsius.

Extended cold wave warning

The cold wave is expected to persist across Himachal Pradesh beyond December 29 which impact districts, including Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Una, Mandi, Kullu, and Chamba.

Severe cold conditions may prevail until January 1, with dense fog likely in isolated locations.

Advisory for residents and travellers

The IMD has urged residents and travellers to exercise caution and take necessary precautions, especially in snow-affected areas where road blockages and disruptions are anticipated.