Pallavi Sharma
Shimla: With snow eluding Himachal Pradesh hill stations on Christmas, the weatherman has predicted snowfall in various parts on New Year.
An icy chill is likely to intensify across the state, with the Met department indicating that 2025 could be ushered in amid falling snowflakes. The fresh weather update has heightened excitement among lakhs of tourists and locals who have thronged the state’s popular hill destinations to celebrate Christmas and New Year.
According to the Meteorological Centre, weather conditions are expected to change on December 30 and 31, ahead of New Year celebrations. Light rain and snowfall are likely in the higher reaches of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, Kullu and upper parts of Mandi district. The lower and mid-hill areas may witness rain accompanied by a further dip in temperatures as an active western disturbance approaches the region.
Orange alert for fog in Bilaspur
The possibility of snowfall has added to the festive buzz in the tourism sector. Hotels across key destinations are witnessing increased bookings, while visitors keen to experience snowfall have their eyes fixed on the skies. Hoteliers say the weather forecast has brought renewed cheer after weeks of dry conditions.
The Met department has issued an orange alert for dense fog in Bilaspur district, while yellow alerts have been sounded for Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Solan and Sirmaur. Reduced visibility is expected in these areas, prompting authorities to advise motorists to drive cautiously, especially during early morning and late-night hours. Higher reaches of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, Kangra and Mandi are also likely to see light rain and snowfall.
Rainfall deficit continues
Himachal Pradesh continues to reel under a prolonged dry spell, worrying farmers and orchardists. Since October, the state has recorded significantly below-normal rainfall.
From December 1 to December 25, the state received just 0.2 mm of rain, 99% less than the normal average of 27.2 mm for the period. Weather experts say the upcoming western disturbance may provide some relief, even as it brings a wintry New Year for the hill state.
