Shimla (Rajeev Sharma): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast another round of rain and snowfall across Himachal Pradesh starting February 1, with temperatures expected to fall sharply over the coming days.
The Meteorological Centre in Shimla reported that the state witnessed dry weather during the 24-hour period ending at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday. Minimum temperatures largely hovered around normal levels, while maximum temperatures in several areas were recorded 2 to 3 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average.
Among the recorded extremes, Tabo in Lahaul and Spiti was the coldest location with a minimum temperature of minus 10.2 degrees Celsius, while Una registered the highest maximum temperature at 24.2 degrees Celsius.
According to the IMD, a western disturbance is currently located over north Afghanistan, accompanied by an induced cyclonic circulation over central Pakistan. Due to the influence of these systems, another western disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from the night of February 2. A subsequent system is also expected to impact the region from the night of February 5.
The forecast indicates light rain or snowfall at isolated high-altitude locations on January 31 and February 6. Widespread light to moderate rain and snowfall are likely across many parts of the state on February 1, while scattered precipitation may occur at a few places on February 2 and 3. Dry weather is expected to return on February 4 and 5.
The weather department has warned of a significant drop in temperatures after the next 24 hours. Minimum temperatures may decline by 2 to 5 degrees Celsius, while maximum temperatures could fall by 4 to 8 degrees Celsius over the next two to three days.
An advisory has also been issued for February 1, cautioning residents about thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and strong winds. Gusts of 40 to 50 kmph, and up to 60 kmph at isolated locations, are likely in districts such as Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla and Solan. No major weather warnings have been issued beyond this period.
The IMD has advised residents, tourists and farmers to stay alert and take necessary precautions, especially in areas prone to snowfall, thunderstorms and dense fog. Dense fog was reported in Bilaspur during the past 24 hours.
