Himachal Pradesh Weather Update – December 23, 2024
Himachal Pradesh is currently experiencing a severe cold wave, particularly affecting the lower hilly regions. The local meteorological department has issued an orange alert highlighting the risk of intense cold conditions in the districts of Bilaspur, Una, Hamirpur, and Mandi for a period of four days starting from today.
Predictions from the weather department indicate light rain and snowfall in several areas within the mid and high hills through Thursday. Minimum temperatures have been recorded below normal levels, contributing to a notable drop in daytime temperatures, which have decreased by two to three degrees Celsius.
Latest Developments
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Peak Weather Activity: According to forecasts, a strong westerly system is expected to bring isolated to scattered rain and snow to the region—including Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand—from Thursday through Saturday, with the most significant weather activity anticipated on Friday and Saturday.
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Cold Conditions in High Altitudes: High-altitude tribal areas and mountain passes are experiencing extreme cold wave conditions, with temperatures plunging to between 14 and 18 degrees Celsius below freezing. Many water pipes have frozen in various mid and higher-altitude regions, and natural water sources, such as springs and tributaries of snow-fed rivers, have also frozen, leading to a reduced flow of water and negatively impacting hydropower generation.
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Dense Fog Warning: A yellow alert has been issued for dense fog in certain parts of the Bhakra Dam reservoir area and Balh Valley in Mandi between December 24 and 26. Residents can expect thick ground frost in isolated lower hill areas during this period.
- Coldest Locations: Tabo has recorded the lowest temperature in the state, dropping to a chilling minus 11.6 degrees Celsius. Other notable low temperatures include Sumdo at minus 5.3 degrees, Kusumseri at minus 4.8 degrees, and Kalpa at minus 1.8 degrees Celsius.
Residents and travelers in Himachal Pradesh are urged to take precautions against the harsh weather conditions and stay updated with the latest forecasts.
