The picturesque hills of Himachal Pradesh are set to transform into a winter wonderland as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts significant snowfall and fog conditions across the region this week. Residents and tourists should prepare for a substantial drop in temperatures and challenging travel conditions.
Detailed Weather Forecast and Timeline
According to the latest IMD bulletin, snowfall activity will commence from December 2, 2024, and continue through December 5, 2024. The meteorological office has specifically highlighted that higher reaches across the state will experience moderate to heavy snowfall during this period.
The weather disturbance is attributed to a fresh western disturbance affecting the Western Himalayan Region. This system will interact with existing moisture, creating ideal conditions for widespread winter precipitation. The IMD has indicated that snowfall will be particularly intense in districts including Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, and Kullu.
Impact on Temperature and Visibility
As the snowfall intensifies, temperatures are expected to plummet significantly across the state. The IMD forecast warns of dense fog conditions in lower and mid-hills, which will severely impact road visibility and air travel.
Popular tourist destinations including Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, and Dalhousie will experience notable temperature drops. The minimum temperatures in these areas might fall several degrees below seasonal averages, creating potentially hazardous conditions for those unprepared for the severe cold.
Travel Advisories and Precautions
The meteorological department has issued crucial travel advisories for the affected period. Key highways including the Chandigarh-Manali highway and Shimla-Kinnaur highway might face disruptions due to snow accumulation and poor visibility.
Tourists planning visits to hill stations are advised to:
- Check weather updates regularly before commencing journeys
- Carry adequate winter clothing and emergency supplies
- Confirm road status with local authorities
- Consider postponing non-essential travel during peak snowfall days
Local authorities have been put on alert to respond to any weather-related emergencies and ensure necessary arrangements are in place for resident safety and minimal disruption to essential services.
The current weather pattern aligns with typical winter conditions in the region but appears more intense than recent years during early December. Meteorological experts suggest this could mark the beginning of a particularly harsh winter season in North India.
