Shimla, Jan 24,
Himachal Pradesh is experiencing an unusually mild winter this January, with limited snowfall and rainfall raising concerns for agriculture and horticulture. Known for its harsh winters, the state has seen above-average temperatures and a predominantly dry spell, leaving farmers and orchardists anxious about its impact on crop yields and fruit production.
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Reports from the higher reaches of Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur indicate light to mild snowfall, but vehicular traffic remains unaffected. Keylong’s roads are only lightly covered in snow. Shimla, Kufri, Narkanda, and parts of Manali recorded very light snowfall on Wednesday, while most areas, including the state capital, have remained cloudy with occasional drizzle. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast predominantly dry weather until the end of the month, with daytime temperatures hovering between 18°C and 20°C, and nighttime temperatures five to six degrees above normal.
January So Far
On January 6, higher altitudes in Lahaul-Spiti received light snowfall, while lower regions recorded minimal rainfall. The MET department initially predicted widespread precipitation but later revised its forecast to isolated regions, reflecting the complexities of forecasting in Himachal Pradesh’s rugged terrain. Similarly, on January 14, a Yellow Alert warned of scattered to fairly widespread precipitation between January 15 and 16. This included expectations of light to moderate snowfall in popular destinations such as Shimla City, Kufri, and Narkanda. However, the rain once again eluded Shimla and its surrounding areas.
This prolonged dry spell is especially worrisome for farmers cultivating off-season vegetables and fruits. Apple growers, in particular, face challenges as high-yield varieties require 1,000 to 1,200 chilling hours during dormancy for optimal growth. The fluctuating temperatures, with daytime highs exceeding 15°C, are disrupting this critical phase. SP Bhardwaj, a former professor at Dr. YS Parmar University, warned that the warm and dry weather might lead to increased pest infestations, forcing farmers to rely more heavily on pesticides.
Despite these concerns, most roads across Himachal Pradesh remain open, except in snow-bound regions of Lahaul-Spiti and parts of Chamba. For those planning to celebrate Republic Day, the weather promises to be sunny and pleasant, offering a brief respite from the gloom.
As last six days of January start , Himachal Pradesh is grappling with an unusual winter marked by sparse snowfall, dry conditions, and elevated temperatures. These climatic changes are leaving residents and farmers alike concerned about their long-term implications for the state’s agriculture and ecology.
