Himachal Pradesh Shivers: Heavy Rain, Snowfall End Dry Spell, Disrupt Life

• Himachal Pradesh experienced widespread rain and snowfall, ending a prolonged dry spell and significantly lowering temperatures.
• IMD reported light to moderate rain/snow at most places, with heavy precipitation in areas like Dharampur (91.4 mm rainfall) and Kothi (105 cm snowfall).
• Temperatures plummeted, with Kukumseri recording -7.2 degrees Celsius; severe cold day conditions declared in Shimla, Manali, Mandi, Bilaspur, Hamirpur.
• The extreme weather, caused by a western disturbance, led to over 600 road blockages and disrupted normal life.
• A fresh western disturbance is expected around January 26-27, bringing more rain/snow, though temperatures are forecast to rise gradually later.

Why It Matters: Himachal Pradesh faces severe cold, road closures after heavy rain and snow, with more winter weather expected.