Himachal Pradesh is experiencing an unusual warm spell in December, with several regions recording their highest daytime temperatures in nine years. The lack of snowfall in high-altitude areas has led to a significant rise in mercury levels across the state.
Solan recorded the state’s highest temperature on Monday, with the mercury soaring to 28.5°C—the highest ever recorded in December. The previous record was 28.0°C in 2016. The unusually warm weather has left residents surprised, as December typically brings cold days and chilly nights in the hill state.
Shimla and Manali also witness record warmth
Shimla and Manali recorded their highest December temperatures in nine years. Shimla’s maximum temperature reached 21.6°C on Monday, just short of the 22.3°C recorded in 2016. Manali registered 18.4°C, compared to the previous high of 20°C in 2016.
Temperature increases have been recorded across other regions of the state as well, with forecasts predicting the mercury will rise further over the next two to three days.
Maximum temperatures recorded across Himachal (Monday):
| Location | Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|
| Solan | 28.5 |
| Una | 24.6 |
| Bilaspur | 23.6 |
| Kangra | 23.4 |
| Hamirpur | 23.3 |
| Dharamshala | 23.0 |
| Nahan | 22.8 |
| Shimla | 21.6 |
| Manali | 18.4 |
Night temperatures also rise, Shimla warmest
Night temperatures have also witnessed an upward trend. Shimla recorded the highest minimum temperature on Sunday night at 10.6°C, making it the warmest place in the state during nighttime—an unusual phenomenon for the hill capital.
Meanwhile, dense fog enveloped parts of Mandi and Bilaspur districts adjoining water reservoirs during morning and evening hours on Monday. The Met Department has issued a yellow alert for dense fog on Tuesday and Wednesday as well, cautioning commuters to exercise caution while traveling.
Light snowfall on high peaks
While lower and mid-altitude areas experienced warm weather, high-altitude regions witnessed light snowfall. Rohtang Pass, Baralacha, and high peaks in Lahaul, along with Bharmour and Manimahesh, received fresh snow cover.
Tourists flocked to Lahaul valley on Monday to enjoy the snow. Visitors had fun amid the snow at Gramphu Bypass and Shinkula Pass. On Sunday night, Kukumseri recorded a minimum temperature of minus 5.7°C, while Tabo registered minus 2.7°C.
Why is it so warm?
Meteorologist Sandeep Kumar explained that most parts of Himachal are experiencing dry weather conditions. “The lack of snowfall in high-altitude areas means cold winds are not reaching the mid and plain districts, resulting in increased temperatures. The mercury is likely to rise further in the coming days,” he said.
Rain and snow expected on December 20-21
The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has forecast the activation of a western disturbance from December 17. As a result, high-altitude areas are likely to receive rain and snowfall on December 20 and 21.
Weather conditions are expected to change in the higher reaches of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, and Kullu districts, potentially bringing relief from the unusual warm spell.
What this means
The unseasonably warm December weather has raised concerns among farmers, horticulturists, and environmentalists. Apple growers are particularly worried as the lack of adequate chilling hours during winter can adversely affect the next year’s crop. Additionally, reduced snowfall impacts water availability during summer months and affects tourism in the region.
While the predicted snowfall later this month may provide some respite, experts are keeping a close watch on the evolving weather patterns and their potential impact on the state’s ecology and economy.
