Rain Returns to Himachal as Kinnaur Sees Season’s First Snowfall
Orange Alert for Sirmaur, Yellow Warnings Issued Across Five Districts
Himachal Pradesh witnessed a dramatic weather shift on Saturday, bringing rain to many parts of the state and the season’s first snowfall to the higher reaches of Kinnaur. While Shimla began the day under clear skies, heavy afternoon showers and mist transformed the weather landscape across the hill state.
The first snowfall of the season was reported near the Kuno-Charang border in Kinnaur’s Pooh subdivision, offering an early glimpse of winter in the higher Himalayas. Rainfall was also recorded across several parts of the district, with light snow reported on some high-altitude peaks.
According to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, a widespread spell of rain is expected to continue over the next four days, with September 27 likely to witness the most intense rainfall activity.
Orange Alert Issued for Sirmaur
The weather department has placed Sirmaur district under an Orange Alert for September 27, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated locations. Yellow Alerts have also been issued for Bilaspur, Mandi, Shimla, Solan and Kinnaur, while Shimla, Solan and Sirmaur remain under a Yellow Alert for September 28.
Forecasters have warned of thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds along with heavy rain in several areas. Southern and central districts, including Shimla, Solan, Sirmaur, Mandi and Bilaspur, are expected to receive widespread rainfall through September 29.
Strong Winds and Continued Rainfall Expected
Apart from rain, gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph are likely in Shimla, Solan and Sirmaur between September 26 and 28. Similar conditions may occur in Kinnaur, Bilaspur, Kangra, Kullu and Mandi on September 27.
Rainfall activity is expected to persist in some areas on September 29, with light showers likely until October 2.
As higher elevations begin to experience winter-like conditions and lower hill regions brace for heavy rainfall, residents and travellers have been advised to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary movement in areas prone to thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds.
