Shimla, Oct 23: Several parts of Himachal Pradesh recorded rainfall on Wednesday, while higher reaches received fresh snowfall, leading to a drop in minimum temperatures across the state.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Shimla office, light to moderate rain or snow was reported at isolated places over the past 24 hours. Koksar in Lahaul-Spiti received 11.4 cm of snowfall, while other areas recorded rainfall, including Kothi in Kullu (23 mm), Manali (12 mm), Bharmaour (11.5 mm), Keylong (6 mm), Bhuntar (3.6 mm), and Kukumsheri (1.2 mm).
Minimum temperatures remained normal or slightly above normal by 2-5°C at many stations. The coldest readings were recorded in Tabo (-0.7°C), Kukumseri (0.4°C), Keylong (1.8°C), and Kalpa (4.9°C).
Tourism stakeholders welcomed the snowfall, hoping it would boost tourist arrivals in upper reaches of the state. Himachal had recorded the first snowfall of the season on October 5. IMD officials noted that Keylong received snowfall in October this year after a gap of two years; the last October snowfall there was in 2022, with none in 2023 and 2024.
Meteorologists said dry weather is expected across the state until October 28. Maximum temperatures are likely to remain stable over the next few days, while minimum temperatures may drop by 1-2°C.
