Snow in heights, Sizzle in the plains: Himachal’s weather
Shimla, Apr 25,
Himachal Pradesh is currently witnessing a striking contrast in weather conditions, with fresh snowfall covering the higher hills even as the lower regions continue to swelter under scorching temperatures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has attributed this varied weather to an active Western Disturbance and a cyclonic circulation over central Pakistan.
In the high-altitude areas, parts of Lahaul-Spiti experienced light snowfall, with Gondhla receiving three centimetres and Keylong recording a trace. Keylong also recorded one millimetre of rainfall and a sharp dip in temperature, becoming the coldest place in the state at 0.7 degrees Celsius. Other minimum temperatures recorded included 5.5°C in Kalpa, 9.9°C in Manali, and 11.8°C in Bhuntar.
Meanwhile, in stark contrast, the lower hills and foothills faced intense heat. Paonta Sahib in Sirmaur district emerged as the hottest place in the state with a maximum temperature of 39.0°C, followed by Una at 38.6°C, Hamirpur at 36.5°C, and Bilaspur at 36.4°C. Shimla recorded a maximum of 26.2°C, Manali 22.8°C, Dharamshala 30.1°C, and Solan 32.2°C — with many stations reporting 2 to 4 degrees Celsius above normal.
Strong gusty winds swept across several areas, with Seobagh registering the highest wind speed at 61 km/h, followed by Tabo and Reckong Peo with 48 km/h and 46 km/h respectively. However, no thunderstorms or hail events were reported during the last 24 hours.
Forecast for the Next 24 Hours
Weather conditions are expected to remain similar over the next day. The IMD has predicted isolated rain and thunderstorms over the mid and high hills, particularly in districts like Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and Chamba. The lower hills and plains — including regions like Sirmaur, Una, and Hamirpur — are likely to continue experiencing dry and hot weather, with temperatures remaining above seasonal norms.
