Snow and rain likely in Himachal’s higher reaches on January 5–6
Himachal’s higher reaches to receive snow, rain on January 5–6
Himachal Pradesh is likely to see a change in weather in the coming days, especially in its higher mountain areas. According to the State Meteorological Department, fresh snowfall and rain are expected on January 5 and January 6. While the higher reaches may turn white with snow, most lower areas and plains will continue to experience dry weather.
Snow and rain forecast for higher areas
The Meteorological Department has said that snow along with rain is very likely in Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti districts on January 5 and 6. These regions are already known for extremely cold weather during winter, and the fresh snowfall is expected to further reduce temperatures there.
In addition to this, snowfall is also very likely in the higher reaches of Kullu and Chamba districts on January 6. However, people living in the plains, lower hills, and middle hill areas of the state can expect dry weather during this period. No major rainfall or snowfall activity has been predicted for these regions.
Along with snow and rain, the weather department has also issued a yellow warning for dense fog in many parts of Himachal Pradesh. This fog warning will remain in effect till January 8. Dense fog may reduce visibility, especially during early morning and late night hours, and people are advised to remain cautious while travelling.
The department has further predicted a rise in temperatures across the state. Minimum temperatures are expected to increase by 2°C to 3°C, while maximum temperatures may rise by 2°C to 4°C in most areas over the next few days. This slight rise in temperature may provide some relief from the intense cold, especially in higher regions.
Temperature trends across the state
Over the past 24 hours, weather remained mostly dry across Himachal Pradesh. There was no significant rain or snowfall reported during this period. However, temperature variations were noticed across different regions of the state.
Minimum temperatures in most parts of Himachal Pradesh were recorded 2°C to 3°C above normal. These temperatures ranged from minus 6°C to 8°C, showing how cold the weather continues to be in several areas. At the same time, maximum temperatures in many places were 2°C to 5°C below normal, ranging between 2°C and 19°C.
Several towns and cities recorded low night temperatures. Shimla, the state capital, recorded a minimum temperature of 3.6°C. Dharamsala recorded 3.5°C, while Manali recorded a chilly 0.2°C. Other places such as Solan (0.6°C) and Bhuntar (0.8°C) also saw temperatures close to freezing.
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Colder regions reported even lower temperatures. Kalpa recorded minus 3°C, Reckong Peo recorded minus 0.4°C, and Narkanda recorded minus 0.1°C. The coldest place was Tabo, which recorded a minimum temperature of minus 6.1°C.
Other locations such as Kangra (6.6°C), Mandi (5°C), Bilaspur (7.5°C), Hamirpur (7.7°C), Una (5.5°C), Nahan (5.5°C) and Paonta Sahib (8°C) recorded comparatively higher minimum temperatures but still remained cold.
In terms of maximum temperatures, Bajaura village in Kullu district was the hottest place, recording 21.2°C. On the other hand, Kukumseri village in Lahaul and Spiti district was the coldest, with a minimum temperature of minus 6.3°C.
The weather department has advised residents, tourists, and travellers to stay updated with weather forecasts, especially those planning to visit higher mountain areas. Snowfall may lead to slippery roads, traffic disruptions, and temporary road closures in regions like Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, and parts of Kullu and Chamba.
Farmers and orchard owners are also advised to take necessary precautions, as snowfall and changing temperatures can affect crops and apple orchards. Tourists visiting snow-bound areas should follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities.
Overall, while snowfall will add to the winter charm of Himachal’s higher reaches, people are advised to remain cautious and prepared for cold conditions, foggy weather, and possible travel difficulties in the coming days.
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