Four Locations Record Sub-Zero Levels; Chill Intensifies Without Rain or Snow
Maximum temperature dips further; several towns 4°C below normal; dry weather expected till November 28 with no relief from cold
Punjab Newsline, Shimla-
Winter has tightened its grip on Himachal Pradesh earlier than expected, even without rainfall or snowfall in the region. The cold is increasing rapidly, with the night temperature in 12 cities dropping below 5°C. In total, 27 places recorded temperatures below 10°C, while four towns saw the mercury fall below the freezing point. As a result, cold-wave-like conditions have started developing in the higher regions of the state.
In the last 24 hours, the maximum temperature across the state has fallen by 1.4°C. The average minimum temperature is also 0.9°C below normal. According to the Meteorological Department, several towns are experiencing temperatures 3 to 4°C lower than the usual values for this time of year. This indicates an unusually sharp rise in cold conditions for the third week of November.
Palampur recorded the highest temperature drop in the state, where the minimum temperature fell 4.0°C below normal and settled at 4.5°C. Many mid-hill and high-altitude areas are witnessing intense chill early in the morning and late at night. Residents have started relying on heavy woollens, heaters, and bonfires to cope with the cold.
Towns That Recorded Sub-Zero Temperature
Four high-altitude locations recorded temperatures below freezing, leading to frost formation during the night:
Tabo (Lahaul-Spiti): -6.6°C
Kukumseri: -3.8°C
Keylong: -4.0°C
Kalpa: -1.0°C
In these areas, water has begun to freeze during the night, and thin layers of ice can be seen on vehicle windshields early in the morning. The weather poses mixed impacts for farmers and orchardists. While frost can damage certain crops, the cold is considered beneficial for apple orchards, as adequate chilling hours support better yield.
Weather experts explain that currently no Western Disturbance is affecting the region, which is why there is no forecast for rain or snowfall. With clear skies and rapid loss of surface heat at night, temperatures are dropping much faster than usual. This process, known as “radiation cooling,” is a major factor behind the intensified cold in hilly areas.
The Meteorological Department has predicted dry weather across Himachal Pradesh until November 28. However, due to the clear skies, night temperatures may dip even further in the coming days. Authorities have advised people to take precautions during early morning and evening hours, especially for children, the elderly, and those with health conditions.
Given the rate at which temperatures are falling before the official onset of winter, it is evident that the coming days may bring even harsher cold to the state. Frost, chilly winds, and dense fog are likely to become more frequent, particularly in the higher and mid-hill regions of Himachal Pradesh.