Himachal braces for New Year snowfall after 75-day dry spell; road safety alert issued
Shimla, Dec 29,
After nearly two and a half months of a prolonged dry spell, Himachal Pradesh is finally heading toward a New Year weather change, with the Meteorological Department forecasting rain and snowfall that may impact mobility in several high-altitude regions on January 1. The IMD has cautioned that intermittent precipitation could make road conditions slippery across interior routes and snow-bound passes, urging commuters and tourists to plan travel with care.
According to the Meteorological Centre, a fresh western disturbance is poised to influence the state beginning December 30, bringing light to moderate snowfall to upper reaches of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and higher belts of Chamba and Kullu. The weather shift is expected to be the first significant wintry precipitation since early October, offering relief to locals and stakeholders dependent on seasonal tourism, but with potential travel disruptions.
Cloud development is already visible over parts of the state, indicating the arrival of the system. While widespread heavy precipitation is not anticipated, mixed rain and snow may occur in mid-hills during late evening and morning hours, when temperatures are likely to remain low and visibility could dip.
Tourist hotspots such as Atal Tunnel, Keylong, Kalpa, Bharmour, and upper Manali regions may witness snowfall activity on January 1. District authorities have advised caution on steep terrains where freezing conditions may lead to black ice formation and temporary suspension of traffic, particularly during New Year holiday rush.
Cold day conditions have also been forecast for isolated pockets of mid and high hills on January 1. Minimum temperatures are expected to fall gradually after the system moves eastward, amplifying the winter chill in higher elevations. However, lower hills and plains, including Una and Paonta Sahib regions, are likely to remain mostly dry, with no major warning issued for those areas.
Night temperatures across the state continue to remain above normal for this period, reflecting the unusual warmth that has persisted through the season. Shimla recorded a minimum of 8.6°C (4.6°C above normal), Manali 5.1°C (around 5°C above normal), Dharamshala 6.4°C, Sundernagar 3.5°C, Solan 2.4°C, and Mandi 4.8°C. In the higher reaches, Kalpa settled at 1°C while Kukumseri in Lahaul was the coldest station at –4.2°C. Una recorded 4.8°C, Nahan 9.1°C, Bilaspur 7.5°C and Paonta Sahib 9°C — all showing milder-than-usual night conditions.
Authorities have urged residents and visitors in higher districts to stay updated with local weather advisories and be mindful of likely temporary disruptions due to snowfall over the New Year period, even as the long-awaited wet spell promises to revive seasonal enthusiasm in Himachal’s winter destinations.
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.
