Shimla: A noticeable shift in Himachal Pradesh’s climate unfolded on Tuesday, with rain sweeping back into numerous valleys while the higher ranges welcomed the season’s inaugural snowfall. The twin onslaught drove temperatures lower and amplified the chill throughout the hill state.
Heavy Showers and Hail in Palampur
The Kangra district bore the brunt of an intense wet spell. Clouds lingered over Dharamshala from dawn, and precipitation intensified as the day progressed.
Palampur logged 68 mm of rain accompanied by hail, unsettling farmers who had already begun harvesting after a spell of clear skies. The sudden downpour threatens crops still in the fields and could complicate post‑harvest handling.
Manali also experienced rainfall, while Shimla stayed largely overcast as temperatures began to fall across many districts.
Snowfall Starts in the Upper Reaches
The higher altitudes were the first to feel the change. Light snow fell in parts of Lahaul‑Spiti, Pangi and Kullu, extending to the upper stretches of the Pir Panjal range and the vicinity of Rohtang Pass.
This fresh white cover has given the high country an early‑winter ambience, and officials anticipate further cooling in the coming days.
In Keylong, strong gusts knocked out electricity for roughly six hours, highlighting how quickly weather can affect life at altitude.
Rain and Snow Forecast Through October 12
The Shimla Meteorological Centre cautions that unsettled conditions will linger. From October 6‑9, light to moderate rain or snow is expected across much of the state, especially in the higher terrains.
On October 10, the plains and lower‑lying districts may see light to moderate rain, with isolated showers possible elsewhere.
Particularly noteworthy are the predictions for Kinnaur and Lahaul‑Spiti on October 8‑9, where stronger rain and snowfall could occur.
Overall, the unsettled pattern may persist until around October 12, with intensity varying by region.
Temperatures Set to Slide Further
Authorities project a steady decline in temperatures statewide. Minimums are likely to drop by about 2‑4 °C in the next 24 hours at several locations.
Over the following two to three days, another dip of roughly 2‑3 °C in night‑time lows is possible, while daytime highs could fall by 2‑5 °C within three to four days.
These falls will make mornings and evenings feel markedly colder, especially in the high‑altitude districts.
Strong Winds Also on the Horizon
Alongside rain and snow, gusty winds are forecast for many areas, with speeds potentially reaching 30‑40 km/h across several districts.
While the rain eases the recent dry spell for some valleys, it also raises concerns for farmers already in the midst of harvest operations.
With rain persisting in the lowlands and snow settling on the peaks, Himachal Pradesh is swiftly moving toward a colder, wetter phase that is likely to dominate the coming week.
