Himachal Pradesh Shivers Under Intense Cold Wave Conditions
A biting cold wave tightened its grip on several parts of Himachal Pradesh on Monday. Clear and dry weather prevailed, but the chill remained severe. The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has reiterated its forecast. It predicts light to moderate snowfall in the coming days.
Fog and Freezing Temperatures Across Districts
Dense fog and low temperatures maintained cold wave conditions across many regions. The low-lying districts felt the brunt of the cold. Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, and Mandi all experienced harsh conditions.
Tabo emerged as the coldest place in the state on Monday. It recorded a minimum temperature of -7.1°C. As many as 13 weather stations registered minimum temperatures at 3°C or below.
Temperature Readings from Across the State
Kukumseri in Lahaul Spiti recorded the second lowest minimum temperature. It was -4°C. Other notable readings included Kalpa in Kinnaur at -2.4°C. Narkanda and Reckongpeo both recorded 0.7°C each.
Bhuntar and Solan registered 1.5°C each. Seobagh recorded 1.8°C, Berthin 1.9°C, and Una 2°C.
Tourist Destinations Also Feel the Chill
Popular tourist spots were not spared from the cold. Kufri recorded a minimum temperature of 1.8°C. Manali was at 2.9°C, Palampur at 3°C, and Dharamshala at 3.2°C.
Shimla itself recorded 3.4°C. Kasauli was relatively warmer at 6°C. Kangra recorded 3.4°C, Mandi 3.6°C, and Bilaspur 5°C.
Met Centre Predicts Relief with Snowfall
The prolonged dry spell continues across Himachal Pradesh. However, the Met Centre in Shimla offers a glimmer of hope. It predicts the possibility of light to moderate rain and snowfall from January 22 to 24.
According to the forecast, dry weather is likely on January 20 and 21. Then, from January 22 to 24, light to moderate rain and snowfall will occur. This will affect parts of the mid and high hills. Most places can expect precipitation on January 23.
Dry Spell Impacts Agriculture
The weather has remained mostly dry since October this winter season. This prolonged dry spell is adversely affecting rabi crops. Wheat in the low hills and vegetables are suffering.
The dry conditions may also jeopardise the apple crop this year. Apple trees have not received adequate chilling hours so far.
Rainfall Deficit Remains Severe
According to the Met Centre, the state recorded negligible rainfall in November and December. From January 1 to January 19, Himachal Pradesh received only 3.1 mm of rain. This is a staggering 93% less than the normal figure of 45.1 mm.
