Himachal Pradesh is currently facing an intense cold wave that has gripped its hills, valleys, and high-altitude tribal areas, bringing temperatures significantly below the seasonal norms. On Thursday, Tabo in the Lahaul and Spiti district recorded the coldest night of the season at minus 7.4 degrees Celsius, according to the Shimla Meteorological Office. Other regions across the state also experienced a sharp drop in temperatures, plunging 6 to 10 degrees below the freezing mark, causing widespread disruption and compelling residents to bundle up in heavy woolens.

The cold wave has been particularly severe in the high-altitude tribal areas and mountain passes. Keylong, Kukumseri, and Kalpa recorded minimum temperatures of -3.3°C, -3.1°C, and -0.4°C, respectively. The biting cold has frozen water pipes in several higher reaches, making daily chores challenging for residents. Icy winds swept through the region, while the weak post-monsoon sun offered little respite from the chilly conditions.

In lower-lying areas, temperatures also stayed below normal. Seobagh recorded a minimum of 2.0°C, followed closely by Reckong Peo at 2.2°C, Manali at 2.5°C, and Solan and Narkanda at 2.6°C. Shimla and Dharamshala, comparatively warmer, recorded lows of 8.2°C and 8°C respectively, while Bhuntar, Sundernagar, Kufri, Palampur, and Hamirpur experienced cold mornings at 3.5°C, 4.5°C, 4.7°C, 5.5°C, and 5.6°C.

The Met office highlighted that the state has experienced higher-than-normal post-monsoon rainfall, which may have contributed to the temperature variations. From October 1 to November 13, Himachal Pradesh received 69.7 mm of rainfall, exceeding the normal 32.7 mm by 113%. This excess rainfall, combined with cold winds descending from the higher mountains, has intensified the chill across the region.

Residents have reported frozen water pipes, creating difficulties in daily routines, particularly in high-altitude areas. Local authorities have advised people to take precautions, including wearing multiple layers of warm clothing and avoiding prolonged exposure to the cold, especially in the early morning and late evening. Icy winds have made outdoor activities challenging, and the Met office has cautioned that the cold wave is likely to persist over the next few days in several districts, particularly in Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, and Shimla.

The unusual cold is expected to impact both human activity and agriculture. Farmers in high-altitude regions have been urged to protect crops from frost damage, while tourists traveling to hill stations are being advised to carry adequate warm clothing. The administration has also ensured that water supply lines in critical areas are monitored to prevent freezing, and local health services are on alert to deal with cold-related health issues such as hypothermia and frostbite.

With temperatures staying well below normal, residents of Himachal Pradesh are bracing for continued harsh winter conditions. The cold wave, coupled with icy winds, is likely to persist, and authorities are urging people to remain cautious and take all necessary preventive measures.