A Picturesque Transformation: Shimla Sees First Snowfall of the Season in Early December After Decades
A Picturesque Transformation: Shimla Sees First Snowfall of the Season in Early December After Decades
Shimla and its nearby areas witnessed the season’s first snowfall, marking an early onset of winter after decades.
Shimla, along with nearby tourist spots Kufri and Fagu, experienced light snowfall on Sunday evening, delighting residents and tourists alike. According to the Meteorological Department, this is the first time in decades that Shimla has seen its initial snowfall in early December, breaking a long-standing trend of delayed winters.
The snowfall turned Shimla’s surroundings into a winter wonderland. Popular destinations like Kufri and Narkanda also received snow, enhancing their charm and drawing the attention of potential visitors. Residents noted the uniqueness of the early snowfall, with one local remarking, “It’s for the first time in over two decades that we witnessed snowfall this early.”
Intensified Cold Conditions
The higher reaches of Lahaul and Spiti experienced intermittent snowfall, leading to hazardous road conditions due to slippery surfaces. The cold wave gripped other regions as well, with temperatures dipping significantly below normal across the state.
Key temperature highlights:
• Tabo (Lahaul-Spiti): -13.1°C (lowest in the state)
• Kukumseri: -6.9°C
• Kalpa: -3.3°C
• Narkanda: -0.8°C
• Shimla: 2.5°C (minimum temperature)
The maximum temperature across the state also stayed below normal, with Una recording the highest at 22.8°C.
Weather Forecast and Impact
The Meteorological Department predicts further light to moderate rain or snowfall in the coming days across various districts, including Chamba, Kinnaur, Kangra, and Kullu. A significant dip in temperatures by 3–4°C is expected, alongside dense fog in areas around Bhakra Dam and Balh Valley.
Relief for Farmers and Tourism Boost
The snowfall offers relief to farmers and fruit growers, who had been grappling with a prolonged dry spell. For the tourism industry, the early snowfall is a boon, with expectations of a surge in visitors eager to enjoy Shimla’s imperial charm and snow-covered landscapes.
This rare and early snowfall has reignited Shimla’s reputation as a quintessential winter destination, bringing joy to locals and setting the stage for a bustling tourist season.
