Himachal Pradesh is likely to experience unsettled weather from October 6 to 10, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Meteorological Centre forecasting thunderstorms, lightning and b winds across the state during the five-day period.
The change in weather is expected to begin on October 6. The latest IMD forecast has issued warnings related to thunderstorms and b winds for October 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10. No such warning has currently been recorded for October 11 and 12.
The weather change may affect different parts of the state. Higher-altitude areas are likely to receive rain along with snowfall, while lower and mid-hill areas may experience rain accompanied by thunderstorms.
Light rain and snowfall are likely in parts of Kullu, Shimla and Lahaul-Spiti on Tuesday and Wednesday. Light drizzle may also occur in some remote areas of Chamba, Kinnaur, Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur.
Cloudy conditions are likely in Shimla and adjoining areas. The change in weather may also affect visibility in some areas. Temperatures are likely to fall in higher-altitude areas, increasing the impact of cold conditions.
The Meteorological Department has also warned of b winds accompanied by thunderstorms. According to the available forecast, wind speeds may reach 40 to 50 kilometres per hour at some locations.
During such conditions, people are advised to exercise caution in open areas and avoid going near weak structures. The IMD weather warning also advises people to remain in safe locations during thunderstorms and b winds.
People are advised to avoid standing near trees, electricity poles and weak structures during periods of b winds and rain.
Most parts of Himachal Pradesh experienced dry weather on Monday. Una recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state at 34.2 degrees Celsius. Sundernagar recorded 31.4 degrees Celsius, Bhuntar 32.6 degrees Celsius and Kangra 31.3 degrees Celsius.
Shimla recorded a maximum temperature of 25.4 degrees Celsius, while Manali recorded 24.4 degrees Celsius. The maximum temperature in Nahan was 30.8 degrees Celsius.
Among minimum temperatures, Keylong recorded 7.9 degrees Celsius and Kalpa recorded 10 degrees Celsius.
Rain over the next few days and snowfall in higher-altitude areas may bring changes in temperatures across Himachal Pradesh. The impact of the weather is likely to be more pronounced in Lahaul-Spiti and other higher-altitude areas.
The IMD has currently issued a weather warning for October 6 to 10. People and tourists have been advised to follow the latest updates from the Meteorological Department and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of adverse weather.
