Snow in Chamba cheers farmers, orchardists

The higher reaches of Chamba district experienced light snowfall on Monday afternoon, providing much-needed relief after a prolonged dry spell that had lasted for four months. The dry conditions had caused drought-like situations, distressing farmers, orchardists and residents alike.

Temperatures dropped to sub-zero levels, triggering light snow, especially in popular tourist spots such as Jot, Dainkund, Kalatop, Holi, Bharmour and the Pangi Valley. The famous tourist town of Dalhousie also saw snowflakes, marking a refreshing change.

Higher altitude areas, including Manimahesh Lake, Kugti and Kuwarsi, recorded snow ranging from 2 to 6 inches. The snowfall continued into the evening, blanketing the region in white and signalling an end to the dry conditions.

The Meteorological Department has forecast widespread rain and snowfall across Chamba district after December 27, offering hope for further respite from the ongoing dry spell.

Una witnesses first precipitation of winter season

Una district in the plains of Himachal Pradesh experienced its first precipitation of the winter season on Monday afternoon. A light drizzle brought a much-needed respite to farmers, whose rabi crops had been struggling under a prolonged dry spell.

The region had remained dry for nearly four months, and wheat crops had been sown in dry soil, causing concern among local farmers. While Monday’s drizzle was brief, the presence of clouds indicates the possibility of more rain in the coming days, offering hope for better crop conditions.