Shimla, March 16: Himachal Pradesh is once again experiencing fluctuating weather conditions, with several regions witnessing rainfall and fresh snowfall at higher elevations. Cold winds have intensified the chill across the state, causing temperatures to plummet significantly. Tribal regions, already in sub-zero temperatures, are seeing further drops, while plains and mid-hill areas are also feeling the cold due to persistent rainfall and gusty winds since Friday night.
Widespread Rainfall Across Districts
According to the latest report from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Kotkhai in Shimla district recorded the highest rainfall overnight, receiving 16.1 mm, followed by Kufri (12.0 mm), Shilaroo (11.4 mm), Kasauli (11.0 mm), Chopal (10.8 mm), Kalpa (10.6 mm), Seobagh (10.0 mm), and Manali (8.0 mm).
Snowfall in Higher Altitudes, Tourist Spots Covered in White
Several high-altitude regions, including popular tourist destinations, have received fresh snowfall. In Lahaul-Spiti, Kukumseri recorded 4.2 cm and Keylong saw 2 cm of snowfall. The famous tourist destination Churdhar in Sirmaur also witnessed fresh snow, attracting visitors keen to experience winter landscapes.
Meanwhile, Kufri experienced hailstorms, and Bhuntar, Jot, and Palampur reported thunderstorms accompanied by lightning. Fortunately, no reports of any major damages or disruptions have been recorded yet.
IMD Issues Yellow Alert, Predicts More Rain and Snowfall
The Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow Alert for thunderstorms and hailstorms for March 16, urging residents to exercise caution. IMD Shimla Director Kuldeep Srivastava stated, “Widespread rainfall is expected today (March 15) across the state, scattered rainfall tomorrow, and isolated rain and snow at higher altitudes between March 17 to March 20.” Weather conditions are expected to remain mostly dry on March 18 and from March 21 onwards.
Kukumseri Coldest, Dhaulakuan Warmest
On Saturday, Kukumseri in Lahaul-Spiti district emerged as the coldest place in the state, recording a freezing minimum temperature of -2.6°C. In contrast, Dhaulakuan in Sirmaur was the warmest, registering a minimum temperature of 15.2°C.
Temperatures in tribal areas were equally severe, with Tabo recording -0.8°C and Kalpa (Kinnaur) at 1.2°C. Moderately cold regions also saw drops, with Shimla (5.6°C), Manali (5.2°C), Dalhousie (5.5°C), Solan (9°C), Chamba (10.4°C), and Palampur (10°C) experiencing considerable cooling.
The return of cold conditions has prompted residents and tourists alike to take extra precautions, particularly in view of expected thunderstorms, snowfall, and icy winds over the next few days.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.