Shimla, Oct 23: Himachal Pradesh experienced rainfall across several districts on Wednesday, while its higher reaches saw fresh snowfall, resulting in cooler minimum temperatures, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.
IMD Shimla reported light to moderate rain or snow at isolated locations over the past 24 hours. Koksar in Lahaul-Spiti recorded 11.4 cm of snowfall. Rainfall was measured at Kothi, Kullu (23 mm), Manali (12 mm), Bharmaour (11.5 mm), Keylong (6 mm), Bhuntar (3.6 mm), and Kukumsheri (1.2 mm).
Temperatures were generally near normal, with many stations recording slightly above-normal minimums by 2-5°C. The coldest readings were at Tabo (-0.7°C), Kukumseri (0.4°C), Keylong (1.8°C), and Kalpa (4.9°C).
Tourism operators welcomed the snow, predicting a boost in visitor numbers to the upper reaches. This season’s first snowfall occurred on October 5. IMD officials highlighted that Keylong received October snowfall for the first time in two years; previously, snow had fallen in 2022, while there were no October snowfalls in 2023 or 2024.
Meteorologists said the state is likely to remain dry until October 28, with maximum temperatures steady and minimum temperatures gradually falling by 1-2°C over the next few days.
