Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Shimla rain and sleet continue for second day, temperatures plunge across hill town
Shimla, March 16,
Shimla rain and sleet continue for second day as temperatures plunge across hill town. The capital and the adjoining areas witnessed a fresh spell of sleet, hailstorm and rainfall for the second consecutive day on Monday, bringing a sharp drop in day temperatures and reviving winter-like conditions across the hill town.
Dark clouds hovered over the region through the day as icy precipitation lashed parts of the city, forcing people indoors and leaving usually busy tourist spots and streets temporarily deserted. The sudden weather shift also made several internal roads slippery, though major highways remained open till the filing of this report.
The ongoing spell is part of an active western disturbance affecting Himachal Pradesh, which has triggered widespread precipitation across the state over the past 24 hours. According to the latest meteorological bulletin issued by the India Meteorological Department’s Meteorological Centre in Shimla, light to moderate rain or snowfall was recorded at most places in the state during the last 24 hours.
Rain, Snowfall recorded across several districts
The IMD data shows that Sarahan, Wangtoo and Rampur in Shimla district each recorded around 3 cm rainfall, while Kataula in Mandi district recorded about 2 cm. Manali and Bhuntar in Kullu district also reported around 2 cm rainfall during the same period.
In higher reaches, snowfall was reported from multiple locations. Khadrala in Shimla district received about 10.2 cm of snowfall, while Kalpa in Kinnaur recorded around 6.4 cm. Snowfall was also reported from Jot in Chamba and Gondhla in Lahaul-Spiti.
Meteorologists noted that the precipitation has also led to a marked fall in maximum temperatures across many stations, with temperatures dropping by up to 2 to 6 degrees Celsius at several locations during the past 24 hours.
Thunderstorms, gusty winds likely
The weather office has warned that thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, hail and gusty winds of 40–50 kmph may occur at isolated places in the coming days as the western disturbance continues to influence weather conditions in the region.
Also read:Himachal wet weather spell likely till March 16 as IMD forecasts Rain, Snow and Thunderstorms
Light to moderate rain and snowfall are expected to continue at many places in Himachal Pradesh during the next few days, with the possibility of heavier precipitation around March 19, according to the forecast.
Relief after prolonged dry spell
Weather experts say the recent spell of precipitation could bring relief to the state’s agriculture and horticulture sectors, which had been facing moisture stress due to an extended dry period earlier this month.
Rainfall statistics for the first half of March reveal a significant precipitation deficit across most districts of Himachal Pradesh. Data shows that Shimla district has received only 15.6 mm rainfall against a normal of 44.5 mm, representing a deficit of about 65 percent so far this month.
The deficit has been even more severe in several other districts. Hamirpur recorded a 92 percent shortfall, Kangra about 88 percent, and Una nearly 94 percent below normal rainfall levels during the same period.
Overall, the state has received 15.9 mm rainfall against a normal of 60.7 mm, indicating a deficit of around 74 percent during March so far.
Residents pull out winter clothing again
The sudden return of cold weather caught many residents off guard. Several people had already packed away winter clothing after a brief spell of warm temperatures last week. However, as mercury dipped again, residents were seen pulling out woollens to cope with the renewed chill.
Despite the adverse conditions, school children returning home during the afternoon were seen braving the cold winds and sleet.
Meteorologists said the weather is likely to remain unsettled over the coming days, and if the western disturbance remains active, winter-like conditions may persist in the mid and higher hills of Himachal Pradesh for the rest of the week.
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.
