Shimla, Feb 16,
Himachal Pradesh is experiencing an unusually warm February which feels like spring. The day temperatures across the State climbing well above seasonal averages and snow remaining conspicuously absent from the higher reaches. What is typically a period of biting cold and sub-zero nights in many hill districts has instead turned into a spell of spring-like warmth.
According to meteorological data, the average maximum temperature across reporting stations stood nearly 4.8 degrees Celsius above normal, underlining the widespread nature of the warming trend.
In the lower hills, Una recorded the highest maximum temperature in the State at 28.0°C, about 4.7 degrees above normal. Neri in Hamirpur district followed closely at 27.7°C, marking a noticeable rise over the previous 24 hours. Sundernagar reported 25.1°C, while Bhuntar and Kangra hovered around the mid-20s, each registering departures of over 6 degrees above normal in some cases.
Even the State capital, Shimla, recorded a maximum of 18.1°C — nearly five degrees above the seasonal benchmark — a significant shift from its usual mid-February chill.
Higher reaches also warmer than usual
In the higher altitudes, which typically witness snow accumulation during this period, temperatures have also remained elevated. Kalpa recorded a maximum of 14.1°C, around 7.5 degrees above normal. Tourist hub Manali registered 17.8°C, nearly 6 degrees above average for this time of year.
No rainfall or snowfall was recorded at any reporting station until late afternoon, and dry weather conditions prevailed across the State. The absence of active western disturbances — which typically bring rain and snow to the region during winter — has contributed to the prolonged dry and warm spell.
No cold wave, no snow cover
Meteorological observations indicate that there has been no significant cold wave condition in recent days. While minor day-to-day fluctuations were noted, there has been no substantial fall in maximum temperatures statewide.
The current pattern has offered temporary respite from the harsh winter chill, particularly in the mid and lower hills. However, the lack of snowfall in higher altitudes is emerging as a concern.
Snowfall during winter plays a crucial role in replenishing glaciers, sustaining perennial water sources, and supporting agriculture and horticulture cycles in the hill State. Reduced snow accumulation could have downstream impacts on water availability during the summer months, especially in snow-fed river basins.
As February progresses, attention will remain focused on whether fresh western disturbances revive precipitation activity or if the dry and warm trend continues deeper into what is traditionally Himachal’s snow season.
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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.