Light snowfall in Himachal’s high altitude areas; 79% less rainfall in February

February 21, 2026

A fresh Western Disturbance is expected to become active in Himachal Pradesh tomorrow (Sunday). According to the Meteorological Department, its impact will be primarily felt in the high-altitude areas of Chamba, Kullu, Lahaul-Spiti, and Kinnaur districts. Light snowfall is expected in these four districts over the next 48 hours.

The weather will remain clear in other parts of the state. Bright sunshine is expected to return across the state from February 24th. Before the recent rain and snowfall, the state had recorded a significant increase in temperatures.

The state’s average maximum temperature was 4.9 degrees Celsius above normal, while the minimum temperature was also recorded nearly 2 degrees above normal. The highest increase in temperature was observed in Kalpa, where the maximum temperature rose by 9.2 degrees, reaching 16.6 degrees Celsius.

Shimla’s temperature 5.1 degrees above normal

Shimla’s maximum temperature was recorded at 18.5 degrees, 5.1 degrees above normal. Bhuntar recorded a 6.3-degree rise in temperature to 25.4 degrees Celsius, Dharamshala recorded a 4.5-degree rise to 23.0 degrees Celsius, Una recorded a 4.9-degree rise to 29.0 degrees Celsius, Kangra recorded a 6.3-degree rise to 26.6 degrees Celsius, and Manali recorded a 5.6-degree rise to 18.6 degrees Celsius.

Minimum temperatures above normal everywhere except Nahan

Minimum temperatures remained above normal in most cities across the state, with a further increase expected today.

February saw 79% less rainfall than normal

The lack of rain and snowfall also remains a cause for concern. During this winter season (January 1 to February 20), the state has recorded 34 percent less rainfall than normal, while February has seen 79 percent less rainfall so far. According to the Meteorological Department, at present there is no possibility of widespread and good rain or snowfall, which may affect water sources and agriculture in the coming time.