Shimla, April 29: A spell of cloud cover and scattered rainfall has pulled down day temperatures sharply across Himachal Pradesh, even as the weather department flagged chances of thunderstorms and gusty winds in the coming days.
According to the latest meteorological bulletin, maximum temperatures across most parts of the state dropped significantly by 4 to 10 degrees Celsius in the past 24 hours, settling 3 to 9 degrees below normal. The sudden dip has brought much-needed relief from the rising heat, particularly in lower and mid-hill regions.
Minimum temperatures, however, remained largely stable, with only marginal changes recorded. Kukumseri in Lahaul-Spiti was the coldest in the state at 5.6°C, while Paonta Sahib sizzled at a high of 33°C, the highest maximum recorded.
Rainfall activity was scattered but notable. Sarahan received the highest precipitation at 25.5 mm, followed by light showers in places like Shillaroo, Kasauli, Manali, Guler, and Pachhad. Thunderstorm and lightning activity was reported in parts of Kangra and around Murari Devi, though no hailstorms or strong winds were recorded.
Shimla recorded a minimum temperature of 14.6°C with 1.8 mm rainfall, while popular tourist destinations like Manali and Solan also saw light showers, contributing to the overall cooling trend.
The weather office attributed the changing conditions to an active western disturbance hovering over north Pakistan and adjoining Punjab, along with other cyclonic circulations influencing the region.
Looking ahead, the forecast indicates continued unsettled weather, with isolated to scattered rainfall likely over the next few days. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds (30–40 kmph) are expected at isolated places, particularly on Day 1, Day 5, and Day 6 of the forecast period.
Another fresh western disturbance is expected to impact the Western Himalayan region from May 2, which could further intensify weather activity.
For now, the state remains free from heatwave conditions, with the cool spell offering temporary respite—but also a reminder of the volatile spring weather in the hills.
