Weather – Hailstorm Alert Issued as Western Disturbance Nears Himachal

Weather – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded an orange alert for several districts in Himachal Pradesh as a new western disturbance is set to influence the region. The advisory points to a likely spell of active weather, including hailstorms and thunderstorms, beginning later today.

Changing Weather Pattern Expected from Evening

According to officials at the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, weather conditions remained largely clear across the state over the past 24 hours. However, this calm phase is expected to end soon, with a shift anticipated by evening as the incoming system begins to take effect.

Meteorologists indicate that isolated areas may start receiving light rainfall by evening, which could gradually intensify overnight. The approaching disturbance is likely to bring noticeable changes across multiple parts of the state.

Districts Under Alert for Hailstorm Activity

The IMD has issued an orange alert specifically for hailstorms in districts such as Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla. These areas may also witness thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds, increasing the risk of localized disruptions.

Officials have advised residents and local authorities to remain cautious, especially in regions that have previously experienced similar weather events. Agricultural areas, in particular, could be vulnerable to hail damage.

Wider Impact Expected on April 17

The weather system is forecast to have a broader impact on April 17, with light to moderate rainfall expected in several districts, including Una, Bilaspur, and Hamirpur, in addition to those already under alert. Thunderstorm activity is also likely to occur in scattered locations.

Plains and mid-hill regions have been placed under an orange alert for lightning and thunderstorms, suggesting a need for heightened awareness among residents in these areas.

Gradual Improvement After Initial Spell

Weather conditions are expected to stabilize gradually after April 18. While some cloud cover and light rainfall may continue in mid-hill districts such as Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi, the intensity of the system is likely to weaken.

However, forecasts indicate another round of rainfall between April 20 and 21. After this period, clearer skies and more stable weather conditions are expected to return across most parts of the state.

Temperatures Remain Above Normal

Despite the approaching weather system, temperatures across Himachal Pradesh have been recorded above normal levels. Maximum temperatures in several districts are currently 2 to 3 degrees Celsius higher than usual for this time of year.

Kangra has reported temperatures close to 30°C, while Shimla has seen readings around 24°C. Warmer conditions persist in districts like Bilaspur and Hamirpur, where temperatures are hovering near 32°C.

Meteorologists suggest that temperatures may rise slightly further in the next 24 hours, with no significant cooling expected in the immediate term.

Rainfall Trends This Month

Data from the IMD shows that Himachal Pradesh has received significantly higher rainfall than average in April so far, with an excess of around 65 percent. Most districts have recorded normal to above-normal precipitation levels.

However, Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur remain exceptions, having received below-average rainfall during the same period.

Recurrence of Hailstorm Conditions Likely

Recent weather disturbances have already triggered hailstorms in vulnerable areas such as Kangra, Mandi, Palampur, and parts of Shimla and Kullu. With the arrival of the new western disturbance, similar conditions could develop again.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging people to stay updated with official forecasts and take necessary precautions during adverse weather conditions.