Shimla, Feb 8 – The dry spell in Himachal Pradesh continues, with no significant rain or snowfall recorded in the past 24 hours, as per the latest bulletin from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Farmers, particularly in high-altitude areas, are anxiously awaiting snowfall, crucial for replenishing groundwater and sustaining apple orchards.
While minimum temperatures remained near normal, the maximum temperatures have risen appreciably, soaring 3-5°C above normal across the state.
The coldest spot was Tabo in Spiti at -10.3°C, while Una recorded the highest temperature at 26.2°C.
A western disturbance is hovering over North Iran, but its impact on Himachal remains minimal.
The forecast suggests only light snowfall at isolated places in Kinnaur, Kullu, Chamba, Mandi, Kangra, and Lahaul-Spiti between February 8-11, with dry weather likely in most districts over the next week.
Farmers, already struggling with erratic weather patterns, are hoping for at least some precipitation in the coming days.
Snowfall at this time is vital for apple cultivation, as it helps in proper chilling, ensuring good fruit yield.
However, with rising temperatures, concerns over an early onset of spring and potential water shortages are mounting.
The IMD has not issued any weather warnings, indicating stable conditions ahead.
But for the farming community, the absence of snow is a growing worry, highlighting the increasing unpredictability of Himachal’s climate.