Shimla: On Tuesday the climate in Himachal Pradesh shifted dramatically, with rain pouring back into the lower valleys while the higher ranges welcomed the season’s first snowfall. This dual assault has driven temperatures down and amplified the chill throughout the hill state.
Intense Rain and Hail Over Palampur
Kangra district saw a particularly vigorous spell of precipitation. Clouds lingered over Dharamshala from early morning, 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 field 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 Reaches
The high‑altitude zones were the first to feel the change. Light snow started to dust parts of Lahaul‑Spiti, Pangi and Kullu, spreading to the upper Pir Panjal range and the vicinity of Rohtang Pass.
The fresh white cover has given the high country an early winter ambience, and officials anticipate further cooling in the days ahead.
In Keylong, strong gusts knocked out power for about six hours, underscoring how quickly weather can affect life at altitude.
Rain‑and‑Snow Outlook Through October 12
The Shimla Meteorological Centre warns that unsettled conditions will linger. From October 6‑9, light to moderate rain or snow is expected across many parts of the state, especially in the higher terrains.
On October 10, the plains and lower‑lying districts may see light to moderate rain, with isolated showers possible elsewhere.
The forecasts for Kinnaur and Lahaul‑Spiti on October 8‑9 are particularly noteworthy, with a chance of stronger rain and snowfall.
Overall, the unsettled pattern could persist until around October 12, 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 across several locations.
Over the following two to three days, another dip of roughly 2‑3 °C in night‑time lows is possible, while daytime highs could fall by 2‑5 °C within three to four days.
These falls will make mornings and evenings feel markedly colder, especially in the high‑altitude districts.
Strong Winds on the Horizon
In addition to 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.
