Shimla: A noticeable shift in Himachal Pradesh’s climate unfolded on Tuesday, with rain returning to several valleys while the higher ranges welcomed the season’s first snow. The dual onslaught has driven temperatures lower and amplified the chill throughout the hill state.
Intense Showers and Hail in Palampur
The Kangra district saw a particularly vigorous spell of precipitation. Clouds lingered over Dharamshala from early morning, and rain intensified as the day progressed.
Palampur recorded 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 received rainfall, while Shimla stayed mostly overcast as temperatures began to dip across many districts.
Snow Begins to Fall in Upper Regions
Elevated zones were the first to feel the change. Light snow fell in parts of Lahaul‑Spiti, Pangi and Kullu, extending to the upper reaches of the Pir Panjal range and the vicinity of Rohtang Pass.
The 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, underscoring how quickly the weather can affect life at altitude.
Rain‑and‑Snow Outlook Through 12 October
The Shimla Meteorological Centre warns that unsettled conditions will linger. From 6‑9 October, light to moderate rain or snow is likely across many parts of the state, especially in the higher terrains.
On 10 October, plains and lower‑lying districts may see light to moderate rain, with isolated showers possible elsewhere.
Particularly notable are the forecasts for Kinnaur and Lahaul‑Spiti on 8‑9 October, where stronger rain and snowfall could occur.
Overall, the unsettled pattern may persist until around 12 October, with intensity varying by region.
Temperatures Set to Slide Further
Authorities project a steady fall in temperatures statewide. Minimums are expected to dip by about 2‑4 °C in the next 24 hours in several locations.
Over the following two to three days, another decline of roughly 2‑3 °C in minimum temperatures is possible, while maximums could fall by 2‑5 °C within three to four days.
These drops will make mornings and evenings feel markedly colder, especially in the high‑altitude districts.
Strong Winds Also on the Horizon
In addition to 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 moving swiftly toward a colder, wetter phase that is likely to dominate the coming week.
