Hope for Rain, Snow as IMD predicts fresh Western disturbances over Himachal
Shimla, Jan 14,
After weeks of unfulfilled forecasts and a prolonged winter dry spell, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has once again predicted a possible change in weather over Himachal Pradesh, with fresh western disturbances expected to become active from Thursday night.
According to the latest IMD bulletin, rain and snowfall are likely between January 16 and 19, potentially bringing partial relief to a state that has remained abnormally dry through most of the winter season. However, weather officials have stopped short of making definitive claims, as earlier projections of precipitation earlier this month failed to translate into actual rainfall or snowfall.
IMD stated that the upcoming western disturbance is expected to be more active over mid and high-altitude areas between January 16 and 18, while its influence may extend to most parts of the state on January 19, subject to system strength and moisture availability.
Himachal Pradesh has recorded an exceptional rainfall deficit this winter. Official data show that November and December 2025 saw rainfall shortages of 96 per cent and 99 per cent, respectively, while January so far remains 89 per cent deficient. The persistent dry conditions have raised concerns for agriculture, horticulture, water availability and winter tourism linked to snowfall.
Despite repeated forecasts of snow, popular hill destinations such as Manali and Shimla have continued to witness dry weather, with tourists walking along Mall Roads under mild afternoon temperatures instead of the expected winter chill.
Meanwhile, the weather office has issued a yellow alert for cold wave conditions in Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Chamba and Kangra districts for Wednesday and Thursday. Dense fog warnings have also been sounded for Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Chamba, Kangra, Solan, Sirmaur and Mandi, where reduced visibility may affect road traffic during early morning and night hours.
Although minimum temperatures have shown a slight upward trend over the past three days, IMD warned that any rainfall or snowfall could sharply intensify cold conditions, particularly in higher reaches. Five days ago, as many as 15 stations were recording sub-zero temperatures, a number that has now dropped to three, but could rise again if precipitation occurs.
As per IMD data, Tabo in Lahaul-Spiti (–7.7°C) and Kukumseri (–7.4°C) remained the coldest stations. Kalpa recorded 0.0°C, while other locations reported above-freezing temperatures, including Shimla (6.6°C), Narkanda (4.1°C), Bilaspur (3.0°C), Manali (2.6°C) and Kangra (2.4°C).
Authorities have advised tourists, commuters and residents to remain alert and follow official advisories closely, as fog, cold wave conditions and possible precipitation could affect road connectivity and daily life across the hill state over the coming days.
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