‘Missing Winter’ finally shows signs of return in Himachal
Shimla, Dec 28,
After nearly two months of elusive rain and snowfall, Himachal Pradesh’s winter has taken an unusual turn, with weather trends now moving in the opposite direction. While the state has largely remained dry since late October, temperatures continue to stay two to three degrees above normal across most regions, even as dense fog and sub-zero conditions in high reaches signal a slow but visible shift in winter behaviour.
According to the latest morning bulletin of the India Meteorological Department, minimum temperatures at prominent stations remained on the higher side. Shimla recorded a relatively mild 9°C, Manali 3.5°C, Dharamshala 9.6°C, Mandi 3.9°C, Palampur 5°C, Solan 2.2°C and Una 4.4°C, all above their seasonal averages. Even traditionally colder mid-hill areas such as Kalpa (0.6°C) and Narkanda (4.3°C) reported nights warmer than usual. In sharp contrast, the tribal and trans-Himalayan belt continued to shiver under freezing conditions, with Kukumsari plunging to –5.4°C and Tabo touching –5.3°C, underlining the stark regional divide in winter intensity.
The prolonged dry spell has kept rivers lean and snowfall scarce, worrying farmers, horticulturists and the tourism sector alike. However, dense to very dense fog along river banks in the low hills and plains has emerged as a major disruptor, reducing visibility to as low as 50–70 metres in places and slowing vehicular traffic during late nights and early mornings.
Meteorologists say the prevailing pattern may soon change. Two successive western disturbances, including a fresh system expected around the year-end, are likely to affect the western Himalayan region. Light rain and snowfall are anticipated in mid and high reaches on December 31 and again around New Year, raising hopes of a delayed but meaningful winter revival.
For a state accustomed to white Decembers, the wait has been long. As the year draws to a close, Himachal’s weather story appears poised at a turning point—where lingering warmth, creeping fog and distant western disturbances together hint that winter may yet make a late but decisive entry.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
