Himachal Braces for Snowfall with Western Disturbance Intensifying on December 31 and January 1
After more than two months of unusually dry skies, Himachal Pradesh is finally bracing for a change in weather just in time for the New Year. The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has predicted the arrival of a fresh western disturbance from December 30, raising hopes of long-awaited snowfall in the higher reaches.
On Friday, Shimla wore a moody look with dark clouds and biting winds, only to brighten up under clear sunshine the next day. But residents, tourists, and the hospitality industry are now eagerly watching the skies, anticipating winter’s true arrival.
High-altitude regions like Chamba, Lahaul-Spiti, and Kullu are expected to see snowfall over the next three days, while mid-hill areas may get light rain or snow. By December 31 and January 1, the weather activity is likely to intensify, painting the mountains white just as the state rings in the New Year.
For tourists, this could mean snow-draped landscapes and picture-perfect celebrations, a welcome boost for hotels and businesses that have endured a dry start to the season.
Temperatures are expected to dip by 2–3°C once the snowfall begins, with the chill cascading down even to the lower districts. Meanwhile, dense fog continues to trouble areas like Bilaspur, Una, Hamirpur, and Kangra, prompting orange and yellow alerts from the weather office.
As one senior scientist in Shimla noted, foggy mornings may linger in the plains, but in the mountains, all eyes are on the clouds—waiting for the first flakes of snow to fall and usher in winter’s magic.
