Shimla, Jan 13,
After two days of cloudy and inclement weather, Himachal Pradesh experienced dry and sunny conditions on Monday. However, the clearing skies brought a significant intensification of the cold wave across the state. Minimum temperatures have dropped by 2-3°C in the past 24 hours, resulting in severe frost and freezing conditions, particularly in high-altitude regions. Roads in these areas have become treacherous due to black ice, creating challenges for commuters. While the Manali-ATR-Keylong road has been cleared and reopened, many routes in the tribal districts remain snowbound, restricting access to remote areas.
The coldest temperatures were recorded in Tabo at -10.9°C, followed by Keylong at -8.7°C and Kalpa at -3.6°C. Other popular destinations like Manali, Narkanda, and Kufri also experienced freezing temperatures at -1.1°C, -2.5°C, and -0.8°C, respectively. Meanwhile, Shimla recorded a minimum temperature of 2.4°C, while Una, Dharamshala, and Mandi were slightly warmer at 3.6°C, 4.6°C, and 4.5°C, respectively.
The meteorological department has forecast light to moderate rain and snowfall in the mid and high hills on 16th January 2025, with isolated rainfall likely in the plains and low hills. From 17th to 19th January, scattered rain and snowfall may occur in mid and high-altitude areas, while dry weather is expected in the plains. A further drop in minimum temperatures by 2-4°C is anticipated in the coming days, which could worsen the cold wave. Additionally, dense fog is likely to envelop low hill and plain areas during the late night and early morning hours from 13th to 15th January, impacting visibility.
Residents are advised to exercise caution due to icy roads, freezing temperatures, and dense fog, especially in high-altitude and low-lying areas. Those traveling to remote regions are urged to check road and weather conditions beforehand to ensure safety.
