Temperature Drops Below Zero in Seven Cities of Himachal, Rain and Snow Expected in 48 Hours

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh): Winter has tightened its grip on Himachal Pradesh as temperatures in seven cities have plunged below zero, even without rain or snowfall. According to the latest forecast by the Meteorological Department, a western disturbance is likely to become active in the next 48 hours, bringing rain and snowfall to the state. This is expected to intensify the cold wave across the region.

Temperature Update: Tabo Freezes at -7.2°C
As per the weather report, temperatures in high-altitude areas have dropped significantly, with popular tourist destinations like Manali, Solan, and some lower regions nearing freezing point.

Tabo in Lahaul-Spiti recorded the lowest temperature at -7.2°C.
Kukumseri recorded -6°C, Samdho -3°C, Kalpa -1.8°C, Bhuntar -0.7°C, Siyobagh -0.2°C, and Bajoura -0.1°C.

Cold Wave in Other Regions

Rekong Peo recorded 0.4°C, Manali 0.5°C, and Solan 0.7°C.
Plains and lower hills, including Mandi, Kangra, Hamirpur, and Una, also experienced biting cold.
Sundernagar and Barthin recorded 1.6°C, Palampur 2.5°C, Una 2.6°C, and Kangra 4.5°C.

Weather Forecast
Sobhit Katiyar, a scientist at the Shimla Meteorological Center, stated that due to the impact of a western disturbance, rain and snowfall are expected between December 8 and 10.

Rainfall is likely in the plains, while snowfall is expected in the hill regions, including Shimla and Manali, on December 8 and 9.

Yellow Alert Issued

A yellow alert has been issued for December 8, warning of thunderstorms and lightning in eight districts: Sirmaur, Solan, Shimla, Mandi, Kangra, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, and Una.
On December 10, snowfall is expected in high-altitude areas, and dense fog may envelop parts of Mandi and Bilaspur.
Weather is expected to clear on December 11 and 12.

Rain and Snow Awaited

The lack of rainfall for over two months has created dry conditions in the state, posing a threat to crops in the plains. Farmers are eagerly awaiting rain. Similarly, tourists at hill stations like Shimla, Manali, and Dalhousie are hoping for the season’s first snowfall, which is expected to boost tourism significantly.