The picturesque hills of Himachal Pradesh are set to experience a weather shift as the meteorological department forecasts light precipitation across the region in early December. With temperatures steadily declining, residents and tourists can expect the first significant winter weather pattern of the season.
Weather Timeline and Western Disturbance Impact
The weather department has predicted light rain or snowfall at isolated locations in the high hills of Himachal Pradesh on December 4. This initial activity will be followed by more widespread conditions affecting both high and mid-hill regions on December 5.
This weather change is attributed to an approaching western disturbance that is expected to influence the region's climate pattern. The department has clarified that the weather will remain dry across the state until December 4, giving residents time to prepare for the incoming precipitation.
Fog Advisory and Temperature Extremes
Authorities have issued a significant warning for dense fog during early morning hours until December 1 in specific areas. The advisory particularly highlights the reservoir area of Bhakra Dam in Bilaspur district and parts of the Balh Valley in Mandi district as regions likely to experience reduced visibility.
Recent temperature recordings highlight the diverse climate across Himachal's varied topography. On Saturday, Tabo in Lahaul and Spiti recorded the lowest minimum temperature at -7°C, showcasing the extreme cold conditions in the high-altitude regions. In stark contrast, Paonta Sahib reported the state's highest maximum temperature of 29°C the previous day.
Detailed Temperature Forecast for Early December
The weather department has provided comprehensive temperature projections for the first week of December across different altitude zones:
- High-hill regions: Maximum temperatures likely to range between 10 to 16°C
- Mid-hill areas: Expected to experience temperatures between 15 to 24°C
- Low hills and plains: Temperatures anticipated to range from 22 to 26°C
Overall, maximum temperatures are expected to remain normal across most parts of the state. However, some districts including Chamba, Kinnaur, Mandi, Bilaspur, Shimla, and Lahaul-Spiti may experience above-normal temperatures during this period.
This weather pattern marks a significant transition toward winter conditions in the Himalayan state, with the precipitation potentially bringing early seasonal snowfall to popular tourist destinations. Residents in the affected areas are advised to take necessary precautions for the changing weather conditions, especially those traveling through fog-prone zones during early morning hours.
