Shimla, Dec 13 (UNI) After a gap of nearly two months, higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh are likely to witness a brief change in weather, bringing partial relief from the prolonged dry spell.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light cloud cover over high and mid-hill areas on Saturday, with chances of light rain and snowfall during afternoon hours.
The inclement weather is expected to persist till late night and early morning of Sunday, followed by a sharp dip in temperatures across the state.
As per the district-wise forecast, Keylong in Lahaul may witness a 40 per cent chance of snowfall on December 13 and about 35 per cent on December 14, while Udaipur could receive light snow with a probability ranging between 25 and 40 per cent during the same period.
In contrast, Kaza in Spiti valley is expected to remain largely dry with mostly sunny conditions and negligible chances of precipitation. No IMD warning has been issued for Lahaul and Spiti as of now.
In the capital Shimla, the maximum temperature is likely to stay between eight and ten degrees Celsius, compelling residents to switch to woollens and thermal wear as winter tightens its grip.
Meanwhile, road connectivity in tribal Lahaul and Spiti continues to be affected due to seasonal closures. The Gramphu–Rohtang Pass stretch on NH-03 and the Gramphu–Batal section on NH-505 remain closed.
The Darcha–Sarchu road has also been shut as per district administration orders, while the Darcha–Shinkula route is open only for 4x4 vehicles. The Lossar–Batal stretch is closed, though Sumdo–Lossar remains open.
Authorities have advised commuters to avoid unnecessary travel in view of fluctuating weather conditions. The prolonged dry spell of nearly three months has already impacted agriculture and tourism in the state.
According to the State Agriculture Department, only 30 to 35 per cent of farmers, mainly those with irrigation facilities, have been able to complete sowing wheat, barley, mustard, peas and potatoes.
The hospitality sector is also under strain, with low tourist footfall in destinations like Shimla, Manali and Dalhousie. “We are keenly waiting for snowfall around Christmas and New Year,” said Suresh, a cab operator in Shimla, adding that many operators are struggling to meet EMI commitments amid declining business.
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