Shimla, Jan 21,
After weeks of sky-watching without reward, Himachal’s residents are greeting yet another western disturbance forecast with more caution than excitement. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for an intense weather spell over the next 48 hours, but on the ground, memories of repeated predictions that failed to bring rain or snow have dulled public optimism.
Weather conditions in the state are expected to begin changing from midnight with the arrival of a fresh western disturbance, which the IMD says could finally end the prolonged dry phase that has gripped Himachal for nearly three months. Rain and snowfall activity is forecast over the coming days, with Friday identified as the peak impact period.
Yet, weather patterns over the past 24 hours have offered little immediate assurance, particularly for the mid and lower hill districts, where skies have remained largely clear and dry. The absence of cloud build-up has reinforced public scepticism, especially after multiple earlier predictions failed to bring any measurable rain or snow.
Cold Nights Continue, Days Remain Warm
IMD observations show that minimum temperatures remained below normal in the foothills and plains, while higher reaches recorded a marginal improvement. Severe cold wave conditions prevailed at isolated places.
The lowest minimum temperatures were recorded at Kukumseri (-6.8°C) and Tabo (-6.7°C), followed by Kalpa (-2.2°C). Seobagh recorded 0°C, while Bhuntar and Manali stood at 1.2°C. In the lower hills, Shimla recorded 4.4°C, Dharamshala 5.8°C, and Paonta Sahib 9°C, underlining the sharp contrast between higher and lower elevations.
Despite the cold nights, bright sunshine dominated daytime conditions at major tourist destinations including Shimla, Manali and Kufri. Maximum temperatures at several stations remained above normal, with Bajaura and Paonta Sahib recording the highest maximum of 25°C.
Orange Alert Issued
The IMD has forecast normal to above-normal temperatures for the next 24 hours, followed by a sharp deterioration in weather. An orange alert for Friday warns of heavy rain and snowfall at isolated places, with light to moderate snowfall likely in higher reaches and rain expected in mid and lower hill districts.
Inclement weather is likely to persist till January 28, raising cautious hopes of relief from the prolonged dry spell.
A Season of Deficit
Himachal Pradesh has witnessed an exceptional 99 to 100 percent rainfall deficit over the past three months, severely affecting water sources, agriculture and winter tourism.
IMD officials said the upcoming wet spell, if it materialises as predicted, could provide much-needed snowfall in higher reaches and help improve overall winter precipitation. Until then, residents continue to watch the skies—hopeful, but unconvinced.
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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.