Shimla, April 4: Himachal Pradesh witnessed a sharp change in weather over the past 24 hours, with widespread rain, snowfall in higher reaches, and a noticeable dip in temperatures across the state, according to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla.
Rainfall activity remained significant in several parts of the state on April 3–4, with Sarahan receiving 32.7 mm, closely followed by Dharamshala (32.2 mm), Jot (22.4 mm) and Manali (17 mm). In the higher reaches, fresh snowfall was recorded, with Gondhla receiving 13 cm, while Keylong and Hansa recorded 7.5 cm each.
The sudden spell also brought thunderstorms and lightning in areas like Shimla, Sundernagar, Kangra, Bhuntar and Jot, while hailstorm was reported in parts of Mandi district, as per media inputs. Gusty winds added to the impact, with wind speeds touching 59 kmph in Hamirpur (Neri) and 46 kmph in Tabo.
Temperatures across Himachal saw a marked dip. Maximum temperatures fell sharply by 2 to 8°C, remaining below normal at many places. Una recorded the highest temperature at 33°C, while Tabo remained the coldest at 0.6°C. Minimum temperatures also dropped by 2 to 5°C in several regions.
Looking ahead, the weather department has forecast continued unstable conditions in the state. On April 4 and 5, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds (up to 40–60 kmph) are likely at isolated places. A similar trend is expected to persist till April 7, with intermittent rain activity.
Importantly, hailstorm warnings have been issued for isolated areas on April 4, April 7 and April 8, raising concerns for farmers, especially those with fruit crops in bloom.
Meteorologists attribute the ongoing weather activity to an active Western Disturbance over central Pakistan and adjoining areas, supported by upper-air cyclonic circulation and strong subtropical westerly jet streams. Another fresh Western Disturbance is expected to affect northwest India from April 7, which may further intensify weather activity.
Advisory:
Farmers have been advised to take precautionary measures to protect crops from hail and strong winds, while tourists are urged to plan travel cautiously, especially in higher altitude areas prone to snowfall and slippery conditions.
The changing weather once again underlines the volatile spring conditions in Himachal, with clear skies quickly giving way to storms in a matter of hours.
