Himachal Pradesh is experiencing a cold wave as fresh snowfall and rain have led to a significant drop in temperatures across the state. The higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh received a fresh spell of snow, while the high and mid-hills experienced light rainfall on Wednesday.

Tabo in Lahaul & Spiti district recorded the lowest minimum temperature in the state at -0.7 degrees Celsius. Other areas in Lahaul & Spiti that experienced snowfall include Koksar, Sissu, Jispa, Gondhla, Tandi, and Keylong. The high mountain passes, such as Rohtang, Baralacha, and Shinku La, also received snowfall, as did the north portal of the Atal Tunnel. Koksar recorded the highest snowfall at 11.4 cm.

Despite the fresh snowfall, all roads in Lahaul & Spiti, including the Manali-Leh National Highway, remained open for traffic. According to the Lahaul Spiti police, the Koksar to Palchan to Manali via Rohtang Pass road, Darcha to Shinku La road, Darcha to Sarchu to Leh road, and Udaipur to Tindi road are open. The Koksar to Lossar road is open only for 4x4 vehicles.

Rainfall was widespread across the mid and lower hills, with Kothi in the Kullu district receiving 23 mm of rain. Manali received 12 mm of rain, Keylong 6 mm, Bhuntar 3.6 mm, and Kukumseri 1.2 mm. Shimla and Dharamsala both recorded a minimum temperature of 12.6°C, while Manali registered 7.4°C. Bhuntar recorded 14°C, Kufri 10.4°C, and Kalpa 4.9°C. Una remained the hottest place in the plains at 33.5°C.

Tragedy struck in the Chamba district, where approximately 250 sheep and goats were killed in an avalanche near the Jarasu Pass. The shepherds were caught off guard by the sudden snowstorm and avalanche while they were returning to Kangra from Bada Bhangal. Two shepherds suffered frostbite and were rescued by villagers. They were initially treated at Holi Hospital before being transferred to Tanda Medical College.

The Shimla Meteorological Centre has forecasted mainly clear weather across the state from October 23 to 27. However, a fresh western disturbance is expected around October 27, which may bring more rainfall and snowfall to the region. While maximum temperatures are expected to remain stable over the next 2-3 days, minimum temperatures are likely to drop by 1-2°C, especially in higher elevations.