# India

Successive western disturbances may end dry spell in Himachal

Rain or snow of light to moderate intensity is likely to increase in the state from late 30 or 31 January for subsequent 2-3 days.

Statesman News Service | Shimla | January 28, 2024 7:45 pm

Successive western disturbances may end dry spell in Himachal

Two Western Disturbances in succession are likely to affect Himachal Pradesh in the coming days, resulting in rainfall and snowfall.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), rain or snow of light to moderate intensity is very likely to increase in Himachal Pradesh from late 30th or 31st January for subsequent 2-3 days.

The spell is likely to be associated with one or two spells of heavy rain or snowfall in districts of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, Kullu and higher reaches of Mandi, Kullu, Shimla (including Shimla city and adjoining areas), and Sirmaur during this period.

In the low hills or plains of the state, there is a prediction of occasional thunderstorms or lightning. Gusty wind conditions are likely at isolated places in mid and high hill areas during the period.

The IMD has also predicted that the average maximum temperatures are likely to be below normal while minimum temperatures are likely to be normal for low hills and below normal for mid and high hills during the period.

The period could witness the first snowfall of the season. The dry spell so far has not only affected horticulture particularly apple crops but the tourism industry has also been impacted badly.

The weather activity could disrupt essential services like water and electricity, communications and related services. The visibility conditions are very likely to decrease creating difficulty to commute and the traffic is likely to be disrupted due to heavy snowfall in mid and high hills.

The experts have advised to keep the livestock indoors due to low temperatures and make adequate arrangements for keeping them warm during the period. Since the temperature is expected to drop further, it has been advised to give winter packing immediately to bee colonies and food to honey bees as there is scarcity of flowers during these days.