Himachal’s Split Climate: Snow Blankets Hills While Plains Sizzle in the Heat
Himachal Pradesh is currently experiencing a dramatic weather divide — while the higher reaches are shrouded in fresh snow and a cold snap, the lower regions are battling an early summer heatwave.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this stark contrast is the result of an active Western Disturbance combined with a cyclonic circulation hovering over central Pakistan. These systems have led to wintry conditions in the mountains and dry heat in the plains.
In the upper reaches, areas of Lahaul-Spiti district received light snowfall. Gondhla saw about 3 cm of snow, while Keylong recorded trace snowfall along with a millimetre of rain. Temperatures have dropped steeply in these parts, with Keylong emerging as the coldest spot in the state at a chilly 0.7°C. Other places like Kalpa, Manali, and Bhuntar recorded minimum temperatures of 5.5°C, 9.9°C, and 11.8°C respectively.
In sharp contrast, the foothills and lower districts are dealing with sweltering conditions. Paonta Sahib in Sirmaur district was the hottest at a searing 39.0°C, closely followed by Una (38.6°C), Hamirpur (36.5°C), and Bilaspur (36.4°C). Even the hill capital, Shimla, recorded an unusually warm 26.2°C. Manali stood at 22.8°C, Dharamshala 30.1°C, and Solan 32.2°C — all above the seasonal average by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius.
Strong winds have been reported in several regions, with Seobagh recording the highest gust at 61 km/h. Tabo and Reckong Peo followed with 48 km/h and 46 km/h respectively. However, no thunderstorms or hailstorms were observed in the last 24 hours.
Looking Ahead: Weather Outlook for the Next 24 Hours
The IMD forecasts that this weather pattern is likely to continue over the next day. Light rain and isolated thunderstorms are expected in the mid and high hills, particularly in Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and Chamba districts. Meanwhile, the lower hills and plains — including Una, Sirmaur, and Hamirpur — will likely remain dry and hot, with temperatures continuing to stay above the seasonal norm.
