Though most parts of Himachal Pradesh woke up to a bright and sunny morning on Sunday (December 8, 2024), the Meteorological Department has predicted rain and snowfall across the state later in the day, with a yellow alert being issued for thunderstorms in eight districts.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has said that a western disturbance is currently active over Himachal Pradesh, with the possibility of rainfall in the plains and snowfall in higher altitudes.
District-wise weather forecast
The districts of Kangra, Solan, Sirmaur, Una, Bilaspur, Mandi, Hamirpur and Shimla are likely to experience thunderstorms and rainfall. Additionally, snowfall is expected in high-altitude regions of Kullu, Chamba, Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur.
The IMD has also predicted a drop in temperatures across the state over the next three days due to rain and snowfall. However, from December 10, the weather is expected to clear up statewide.
Fog warning for low-altitude areas
Starting December 10, the IMD has warned of increased fog risk in the plains of Bilaspur and Mandi, which could reduce visibility significantly. A yellow alert has been issued for these areas.
Since the monsoon’s withdrawal on October 2, the state has recorded 98% below-normal rainfall, leading to drought-like conditions in the plains. Key districts like Bilaspur, Chamba, Hamirpur, Kullu, Sirmaur and Solan have seen no significant rainfall, affecting water supply and hydropower projects.
Sub-zero minimum temperatures
The current weather forecast has brought hope for relief in these drought-affected regions.
Several locations, including Bhuntar, recorded sub-zero minimum temperatures. The mercury stood at 5°C in Shimla, 2.5°C in Sundernagar, 0.5°C in Bhuntar, -1.8°C in Kalpa, -6.5°C in Kukumseri and -8.9°C in Tabo. In Dharamshala, the temperature stood at 5.6°C, Una 1.8°C and Solan at 0.6°C.
