Himachal weather update: Three-day orange alert for thunderstorm, hail from today; April 15 to witness widespread rain

TNR Desk

The Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted rain and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh over the next week. A strong western disturbance is expected to get active over the state for 72 hours starting April 13. Consequently, an orange alert has been issued for rain, storms and hailstorms spanning three days.

During the period, light snowfall is anticipated in the elevated regions of Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti and Chamba with rain forecast in other areas. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for April 16. The western disturbance is projected to weaken somewhat from April 16 onwards for the subsequent four days. Consequently, intermittent sunshine is expected in certain areas, while other parts may experience rain and hailstorms until April 19. Following the impending change in weather, the temperature is expected to decrease once more.

Meanwhile, both minimum and maximum temperatures in most parts of the state remain above average. The state’s average maximum temperature currently exceeds the normal by 2.8 degrees Celsius, with the minimum temperature also standing 1.3 degrees higher. Bhuntar’s temperature has surged to 29.7 degrees Celsius, marking a 6.4-degree increase compared to the norm. In Shimla, the mercury has risen to 23.5 degrees Celsius, which is a 3.9-degree spike above normal. Other cities are also experiencing temperature elevations ranging from 4 to 6 degrees Celsius.

The IMD’s forecast has raised concerns among apple growers as apple flowering is currently underway in the state. The anticipated rain, snowfall and hailstorms pose a threat to apple crops. Last year, apples suffered damage due to hailstorms and untimely rain, and this year’s weather patterns suggest a similar threat to apple cultivation.