Himachal Pradesh Weather Update: Light Rain and Snowfall Likely as Western Disturbance Approaches

Key Takeaways:

• A fresh western disturbance is expected to affect northwest India from October 24, ending the prevailing dry spell over parts of the Western Himalayas.
• Isolated light rain is likely in the middle hills of Himachal Pradesh, while higher elevations may receive light snowfall, with no widespread precipitation indicated.
• Haryana may experience isolated light rain, Delhi is likely to see limited impact, and travellers to higher Himalayan elevations should remain cautious of slippery roads and reduced visibility.
• Forecast Validity: October 22–25, 2026, with the main rain and snowfall activity expected on October 24 and 25.

A fresh western disturbance is expected to begin affecting northwest India from 24 October, ending the current dry spell over parts of the Western Himalayas. Himachal Pradesh is forecast to receive light rain or snow at isolated places on 24 and 25 October, mainly across the middle and higher hills. This is not presently indicated as a major precipitation episode, but it represents a noticeable weekend change for residents, tourists and travellers in higher elevations.

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Conditions were dry across Himachal Pradesh during the preceding observation period, with no reported rain, snowfall, thunderstorms, hail or fog in the regional bulletin. Tabo recorded a minimum temperature of 0.1°C, illustrating the seasonally cold conditions already established in the higher valleys. Meanwhile, an upper-air cyclonic circulation persisted over north Haryana, while the approaching western disturbance was expected to provide the next source of cloud and uplift.

Through 22 and 23 October, mainly dry weather should continue across Himachal Pradesh and much of northwest India. Cloud cover is likely to increase from the west on 24 October as the disturbance approaches. Light rain may occur at isolated places in the middle hills, while the highest reaches may receive light snowfall. Similar limited activity is possible on 25 October before conditions begin improving as the system moves eastwards.

The adjoining plains are expected to see a much weaker response. Haryana’s regional outlook indicates isolated light rain on 24 and 25 October, but widespread rainfall is not forecast. Delhi recorded maximum temperatures of 29–32°C during the 24 hours ending on the morning of 22 October, and IMD expects little change initially, followed by a rise of 1–3°C. Any effect from the disturbance on Delhi appears limited at this stage.

Travellers heading towards high passes and remote valleys should check local forecasts because even light snowfall can make shaded roads slippery and reduce visibility. Orchardists and farmers should note the possibility of brief rainfall but should not plan around a widespread wet spell. Forecast confidence is moderate for the arrival of the disturbance, while the exact coverage and elevation of snowfall remain less certain and require updated regional guidance.