Earlier western disturbance brought only dry winds
Pallavi Sharma
SHIMLA: After two back-to-back western disturbances earlier this month failed to bring the much-awaited rain and snow, Himachal Pradesh is now eyeing yet another approaching system — and this time, forecasters say there is a glimmer of hope.
The state, reeling under an unusually prolonged dry phase, may finally see light rain and fresh snowfall in its higher reaches when a new western disturbance moves in on December 14.
The western disturbances of December 5 and 7 had raised expectations across the hill state, only to fizzle out and leave the skies dry. Instead of delivering moisture, both systems dragged in cold winds, deepening the winter chill without offering the benefits of rain or snow. Farmers, orchardists and winter travellers have been increasingly anxious as weather patterns continue to defy seasonal norms.
New western disturbances expected to arrive December 14
A brief change came on December 8 when Rohtang Pass reported about two inches of fresh snow, the first notable snowfall in nearly a month. Upper ridges also picked up a thin layer, triggering a dip in temperatures statewide. But the rest of Himachal remained moisture-starved, with cold winds sweeping through valleys and mid-hills.
Meteorologists now predict that the incoming western disturbance could finally deliver some relief. Light snowfall or isolated showers are possible in high-altitude pockets, while the plains and mid-hills are expected to remain clear. Sunshine is likely to dominate until December 13 before the weather begins to shift.
Rain deficit continues to worry farmers
From December 1 to 8, the state should have received around 3 mm of rainfall, but not a single drop has been recorded. November was similarly dry, deepening concerns for rabi crops and apple-growing regions that depend on early winter moisture.
Though the new western disturbance may not be strong, residents and farmers alike are cautiously optimistic. After two disappointments in a row, even a light spell of rain or snow would bring much-needed relief to the parched slopes of Himachal.
