A western disturbance (WD) is set to become active in Himachal Pradesh from Tuesday (January 21, 2025) night, bringing significant rainfall and snowfall over the next two days.
Heavy snowfall is expected particularly in Shimla, Kullu and Kinnaur districts, while other regions are likely to experience moderate to heavy rainfall. Since this morning, most parts of the state have been covered in clouds, and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted snowfall in higher-altitude areas tonight.
Before the onset of rain and snow, a notable rise in temperatures has been recorded across the state. Most cities are experiencing temperatures 4 to 6 degrees Celsius above normal.
Shimla’s minimum temperature has risen by 5.6 degrees above normal to reach 8.2°C. In Keylong, the minimum temperature has increased by 6.8 degrees, currently standing at -3.2°C, while in Mandi, it has risen by 2.3 degrees to reach 6.2°C.
The IMD-Shimla has issued a yellow alert for cold wave conditions in the plains of Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Mandi and Kangra districts on January 23. Additionally, a fog alert has been issued for the plains starting January 24.
Currently, the average minimum temperature in the state is 3.9 degrees above normal, while the maximum temperature is also 2.8 degrees higher than usual. In Keylong, the maximum temperature has soared by 10.5 degrees above normal.
Despite the upcoming precipitation, January has witnessed significantly below-average rainfall and snowfall so far. Between January 1 and 21, the state recorded only 14.8 mm of precipitation, whereas the normal for this period is 50.3 mm—indicating a 71% deficit in rainfall and snowfall this month.
Himachal weather: Two-day alert for rain, snow from tonight; 71% deficit in January
