Shimla: On Tuesday the weather pattern over Himachal Pradesh shifted dramatically, with rain returning to several low‑lying valleys and the higher ranges receiving the first snowfall of the season. The dual impact has driven temperatures down and amplified the chill throughout the hill state.
Intense Rain and Hail in Palampur
The Kangra district endured a vigorous spell of precipitation. Clouds lingered over Dharamshala from dawn, and the downpour grew stronger as the day wore on.
Palampur logged 68 mm of rain accompanied by hail, unsettling farmers who had already begun harvesting under clear skies. The sudden deluge threatens crops still in the fields and may complicate post‑harvest handling.
Manali also recorded measurable rain, while Shimla stayed largely overcast as temperatures began to fall across many districts.
Snow Begins to Fall in the Upper Regions
Higher altitudes were the first to feel the change. Light snow fell in parts of Lahaul‑Spiti, Pangi and Kullu, extending to the upper reaches of the Pir Panjal range and the area around Rohtang Pass.
The fresh white cover has given the high country an early winter ambience, and officials anticipate further cooling in the coming days.
In Keylong, strong gusts knocked out electricity for roughly six hours, highlighting how quickly the weather can affect life at altitude.
Rain and Snow Forecast Through 12 October
The Shimla Meteorological Centre warns that unsettled conditions will linger. From 6‑9 October, light to moderate rain or snow is expected across much of the state, especially in the higher terrains.
On 10 October, the plains and lower‑lying districts may experience light to moderate rain, with isolated showers possible elsewhere.
Particularly noteworthy are the predictions for Kinnaur and Lahaul‑Spiti on 8‑9 October, where stronger rain and snowfall could occur.
Overall, the unsettled pattern may persist until around 12 October, with intensity varying by region.
Temperatures Set to Slip Further
Authorities project a steady decline in temperatures statewide. Minimums are likely to drop by about 2‑4 °C in the next 24 hours at several locations.
Over the following two to three days, another fall of roughly 2‑3 °C in night‑time lows is possible, while daytime highs could dip by 2‑5 °C within three to four days.
These reductions will make mornings and evenings feel markedly colder, especially in the high‑altitude districts.
Strong Winds Expected Across the Region
Alongside rain and snow, gusty winds are forecast for many areas, with speeds potentially reaching 30‑40 km/h across several districts.
While the rain eases the recent dry spell for some valleys, it also raises concerns for farmers already in the midst of harvest operations.
With rain persisting in the lowlands and snow settling on the peaks, Himachal Pradesh is swiftly moving toward a colder, wetter phase that is likely to dominate the coming week.
