Shimla: Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir welcomed the New Year with fresh snowfall in their higher reaches, bringing joy to tourists and locals while also intensifying winter chill across the region.
In Himachal Pradesh, light snow was reported in parts of the tribal district of Lahaul-Spiti, including Kukumseri, Koksar, Shinkula, Zanskar-Sumdo, the Atal Tunnel area, and Rohtang. Dense cloud cover and intermittent snowfall added a festive touch for visitors who had traveled to experience the winter landscape. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Shimla office, very light precipitation was observed in isolated high hill areas over the past 24 hours.
MeT officials warned that minimum temperatures are expected to drop further, by 4–7 degrees in mid- and high-hill regions and 3–5 degrees in plains over the next two days. Maximum temperatures are also forecast to fall gradually by 3–5 degrees in the coming days. Cold wave alerts have been issued for isolated pockets in Hamirpur, Kangra, Sirmaur, Bilaspur, Una, Kullu, and Mandi districts. On Wednesday, Kukumseri recorded the lowest minimum at -3.4°C.
Meanwhile, Kashmir saw fresh snowfall in several higher-altitude areas, including Gurez in Bandipora, Gulmarg in Baramulla, and Macchil in Kupwara. While the valley experienced snow, night-time temperatures remained above the seasonal average due to cloud cover, maintaining an unusually warm winter. Srinagar recorded a minimum of 2.3°C, about 4.9 degrees above normal, and Gulmarg was the coldest spot at -3.0°C. In south Kashmir, Pahalgam registered -1.8°C and Qazigund saw 1.4°C.
The IMD forecast light to moderate snowfall or rain over many parts of the higher reaches in Kashmir over the next 24 hours, with isolated heavy snow in extreme northern and central locations. A brief spell of precipitation is also possible on Friday in some areas.
Tourists visiting both Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir welcomed the snowfall, capturing picturesque landscapes and enjoying the winter conditions, even as authorities continue to monitor temperatures and issue alerts to ensure public safety.
