Hatu Peak, one of the most prominent tourist destinations in Shimla district, has recorded its first snowfall of the season. The snowfall has brought cheer to locals, who see it as the start of the winter season in the hills.
The snow was not limited to Hatu Peak. Higher reaches of the state, including Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, Kullu and Chamba districts, also recorded snowfall.
Hatu Peak Snowfall: Rain in Lower Areas and a Drop in Temperature
Along with the snow in the high mountains, light rainfall was recorded in several lower areas. These include Paonta Sahib, Bhuntar, Bharmour, Sundernagar, Kalpa and Kotkhai in Shimla district. The weather stayed mostly cloudy in many parts of the state.
Because of the snow and rain, temperatures fell by 2°C to 3°C across Himachal Pradesh. This drop is a clear sign that the weather is shifting toward winter conditions.
Weather Forecast: Dry Till October 29, Rain and Snow Likely From October 30
The Meteorological Centre has shared the outlook for the coming days. According to the forecast, the weather will remain dry across the state till October 29. After that, another spell of rain and snow is likely from October 30 onwards.
During this next spell, minimum and maximum temperatures are likely to rise by 2°C to 3°C. So while more snow and rain are coming, the days and nights may not feel as cold as they do right now.
- Hatu Peak in Shimla district recorded its first snowfall of the season
- Snowfall also reported in Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, Kullu and Chamba districts
- Light rain in Paonta Sahib, Bhuntar, Bharmour, Sundernagar, Kalpa and Kotkhai
- Temperatures fell 2°C to 3°C across the state
- Dry weather expected till October 29
- Fresh rain and snow likely from October 30 onwards
Our Take: Why This Snowfall Matters for Shimla District
In our view, the first snowfall at Hatu Peak is more than just a weather update. It is the signal that the tourist season in the hills is about to change. Hatu Peak is a well-known destination in Shimla district, and snow there usually draws visitors who want to see the hills covered in white.
To put it plainly, locals have a reason to smile. Snow and rain bring moisture to the region, and for people whose lives depend on tourism and farming, this early snowfall is welcome news. At the same time, the forecast of more rain and snow from October 30 means travellers and residents should plan ahead. Roads in higher areas can become slippery, and the cold will get sharper in the mountains.
The drop of 2°C to 3°C right now, followed by a rise of 2°C to 3°C during the next spell, shows how quickly the weather is moving in Himachal Pradesh. Readers in the state should keep an eye on the forecast and prepare for a wetter, colder end to October.