Himachal Pradesh Weather: IMD issues orange alert; heavy snow, a cold wave is predicted
Himachal Weather Forecast: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted continued heavy snowfall and cold waves across Himachal Pradesh, issuing an orange alert for Saturday, December 28, 2024.
The advisory comes as the country faces significant weather changes, including heavy rain and snow in six districts, including Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Shimla and Kinnaur.
According to Shobhit Katiyar, chief scientist of the Himachal Pradesh Meteorological Department, significant weather is being observed in the districts of the state from Friday morning.
“Himachal Pradesh has been receiving light to moderate rain in the plains, and snowfall has started in the higher elevations during the day. Snowfall continues in the higher reaches of Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Kangra, and Kullu, as well as the eastern parts of the state, including Shimla,” Katiyar said.
“Plains like Solan, Hamirpur, and Una are recording continuous rain, and these conditions are likely to continue till the morning of December 29,” he adds.
A drop in temperature was noticed, with temperatures dropping by 5-6 degrees Celsius in just half an hour in the afternoon on December 27.
Hail and rain are also expected in districts like Solan and Sirmaur from this evening.
Weather Forecast for Himachal Pradesh: Heavy snowfall is expected at higher altitudes
The higher elevations in six states are bracing for heavy snowfall and increasing conditions expected in the morning. Light to moderate snowfall is forecast in 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 expected to drop significantly.
On Friday, Shimla dropped by 13 degrees Celsius on December 26 to around 7 degrees Celsius.
Extended cold wave warning
The cold wave is expected to continue across Himachal Pradesh after December 29 affecting districts, including Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Una, Mandi, Kullu, and Chamba.
Colder conditions are likely until January 1, with dense fog in isolated areas.
Advice for residents and travellers
The IMD urged residents and travelers to be aware and take appropriate precautions, especially in snow-affected areas where road closures and disruptions are expected.
