Shimla, India (November 22, 2024) - Areas within the Himalayan range of Himachal Pradesh are expected to experience rain and snowfall on Saturday, while the plains and mid-hills will remain clear and dry. According to the meteorological department, light rain and snow are anticipated in elevated regions of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, Kangra, and Kullu districts. However, from Sunday onwards, the weather is forecasted to be completely clear and dry for a week.
The state has been under a dry spell for the past 53 days, with October recording 98% less rainfall than normal, and no precipitation reported in November so far. This lack of rain poses a threat to crops, particularly delaying wheat sowing in areas lacking irrigation facilities.
Temperatures across the state continue to drop, leading to notably cold nights. The tribal district of Lahaul-Spiti has recorded sub-zero temperatures in four towns, with Taboo hitting a minimum of -8.7 degrees Celsius, Kukumseri at -4.1 degrees, Keylong at -2, and Samdho at -1.3 degrees. In contrast, maximum temperatures reached 28 degrees in Una and 16.4 degrees in the capital, Shimla. Overall, most parts of the state have remained dry over the last 24 hours, with light fog observed in Bilaspur, Sundernagar, and Mandi.