Fresh snowfall, rain likely from February 18

The higher and middle hills of the state received fresh snowfall today, bringing cheer to farmers and orchardists alike. Light snowfall occurred in the higher reaches of Kullu, including the Atal Tunnel, Lahaul and Spiti and in the upper regions of Shimla such as Narkanda.

As per the Meteorological Department, the state is expected to receive snowfall and rain from February 18 onwards. While only higher hills will receive snowfall on February 18 and 21, snowfall and rainfall are very likely to occur across the state on February 19 and 20.

Light precipitation occurred in isolated areas, while the weather was dry in many parts of the state during the past 24 hours. The minimum temperature in Shimla was 6.5°C, Dharamsala (5.5°C), Manali (4.9°C), Dalhousie (6.4°C), Solan (5°C), Mandi and Kangra (8.8°C), Bilaspur and Sundernagar (7.5°C), Nahan (10.1°C), Paonta Sahib (8°C), Chamba (8.5°C), Bhuntar (4.2°C), Kalpa (1°C) and Keylong (-3.3°C).

With 27°C maximum temperature, Una was the hottest place in the state. Meanwhile, Kukumseri village in Lahaul and Spiti was the coldest place at -5.3°C.