Himachal Pradesh Braces for Significant Temperature Drop as Snowfall Returns
The meteorological department has issued a crucial weather forecast for Himachal Pradesh, predicting a substantial drop in temperatures across the state. According to the latest predictions, daytime temperatures are expected to plummet by 4 to 8 degrees Celsius on January 27, creating cold-day conditions that will affect multiple districts.
Widespread Snowfall and Rainfall Forecast
An active western disturbance combined with favorable synoptic conditions is set to bring widespread rainfall and snowfall across Himachal Pradesh from the night of January 26 through the morning of January 28. This weather system is anticipated to significantly impact daily life, tourism activities, and road connectivity throughout various parts of the mountainous state.
Most popular tourist destinations including Shimla, Kufri, Narkanda, Naldehra, Manali, Solang Valley, and Sissu are likely to experience light to moderate snowfall or rainfall, with one or two intense spells expected on January 27. The department has forecast widespread precipitation across most districts during this period, with isolated heavy rainfall or snowfall in specific areas.
Current Weather Situation and Road Conditions
On Sunday, the weather remained clear across almost the entire state, providing authorities with valuable time to clear roads that had been blocked by heavy snow. Despite this improvement, restrictions and advisories remain in effect, allowing only 4×4 vehicles in high-altitude areas such as Kufri, Manali, Chamba, and Lahaul & Spiti.
A police officer reported that "road connectivity in Shimla and Manali is being restored" and that "most of the stranded tourists between Manali and Patlikuhal were evacuated." The officer added that the situation in Shimla is under control, though a significant traffic jam that had stretched 13 kilometers between Manali and Patlikuhal on the first day of snowfall has now reduced to approximately 5 kilometers.
Weather Alerts and Precautions
The meteorological department has issued an orange alert for isolated heavy rainfall or snowfall in Chamba, Kullu, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti districts on January 27. Additionally, a yellow alert has been sounded for isolated hailstorms in Una, Bilaspur, Solan, and Sirmaur districts.
A yellow alert for cold-day conditions has been issued for multiple districts including Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Shimla, Solan, Sirmaur, and Mandi. The department has also warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds ranging from 50 to 60 kmph, with gusts potentially reaching up to 70 kmph at isolated places between January 26 and 27.
Sustained winds with speeds reaching 55 to 65 kmph are expected over parts of Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti on January 27, adding to the challenging weather conditions.
Tourism Impact and Local Response
Saravjeet Singh, a hotelier in Manali, noted that "the situation has improved in the last 36 hours" with roads being opened, though only tourists in 4×4 vehicles are being allowed to enter Manali from Patlikuhal. He observed that "whenever snowfall takes place, tourists' rush increases unexpectedly" and that weekends and the Republic Day holiday have already extended the vacation period.
Authorities have strongly advised tourists, commuters, and residents in vulnerable areas to exercise caution during the adverse weather conditions. Recommendations include avoiding unnecessary travel and closely following advisories issued by the local administration to ensure safety during this period of significant weather changes.
