Maximum temperatures plunge by up to 11°C; thunderstorms and lightning forecast in parts of the state
Shimla: Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a sharp change in weather, with rainfall and snowfall in higher reaches bringing a sudden chill across the state. Maximum temperatures at most places dropped by 5 to 11 degrees Celsius over the past 24 hours, while readings at several locations fell 5 to 14 degrees below normal, making residents feel the onset of winter earlier than usual.
According to the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, unsettled weather is likely to continue over the coming days. Light to moderate rainfall was recorded across most parts of the state until Monday morning, while higher-altitude areas received snowfall. Minimum temperatures also declined by 2 to 5 degrees Celsius. Minimum temperatures ranged between minus 7 and 0 degrees Celsius in high-altitude areas, 7 and 19 degrees in mid-hill regions, and 12 and 21 degrees in the plains and lower hills. Kukumseri in Lahaul-Spiti recorded the lowest minimum temperature at minus 0.4 degrees Celsius. On Sunday, Una had registered the highest maximum temperature at 30.4 degrees Celsius.
According to the weather department’s forecast, light to moderate rainfall is likely at isolated places on October 13. Several areas may receive light to moderate rain on October 14 and 15, while higher reaches may experience snowfall. Dry weather is expected to prevail across most parts of the state from October 16 to 18, although isolated high-altitude areas may receive light rain or snow.
Temperatures Likely to Rise Over Next 48 Hours
The Meteorological Centre has forecast a rise in minimum temperatures by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures by 3 to 6 degrees over the next 48 hours across most parts of the state. Temperatures may subsequently fall by 2 to 5 degrees over the following two to three days. The fluctuating weather is likely to bring brief relief from the cold before temperatures begin to fall again.
Thunderstorm and Lightning Warning
Thunderstorms and lightning are likely at isolated places across the state between October 13 and 15. Residents have been advised to avoid standing under trees during adverse weather and to seek shelter in safe locations. Rain may also leave roads slippery, increasing the risk of accidents, particularly on hilly stretches. Motorists have been advised to drive cautiously, maintain safe speeds and check the latest weather updates before planning journeys through mountainous areas.
