Shimla: After the December 31, 2025 forecast of light snow and rain in the apple belt turned out to be botched up, the latest prediction issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday, January 12, 2026, has raised fresh hopes among apple growers across Himachal Pradesh.
The IMD has forecast widespread rain and snowfall over higher and mid-hill regions between January 13 and January 15, 2026, which is being seen as a big relief for orchardists who were left disappointed by the earlier failed prediction.
Growers had been banking heavily on winter precipitation for proper chilling hours, crucial for a healthy apple crop.
The previous forecast issued for December 31 had created expectations of snowfall, but the weather remained largely dry across most apple-growing areas, triggering anxiety among farmers.
With winter almost halfway through, the lack of adequate snow since early December 2025 has already started impacting soil moisture and chilling accumulation in major belts of Shimla, Kinnaur, Kullu and parts of Mandi district.
This time, however, IMD officials say a stronger western disturbance is likely to affect the region from January 13 onwards, increasing the chances of significant precipitation.
If the forecast holds true, it could help improve chilling hours, recharge groundwater and ensure better flowering in the coming season.
Apple growers are cautiously optimistic. “We can only pray the forecast turns true this time. Our entire season depends on winter snow,” said a grower from Rohru.
The state horticulture department is also closely monitoring the situation, as adequate snowfall in January is vital not just for apples but for other stone fruits and winter crops dependent on moisture.
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