Key Highlights
- Peak Activity: Heavy rain and snow expected on Friday, January 23.
- Orange Alert (Snow): Issued for Chamba, Kullu, Lahaul-Spiti, and Kinnaur.
- Yellow Alert (Rain/Wind): Active for Kangra, Shimla, Mandi, and Solan.
- Tourist Spots: Snowfall likely in Manali, Shimla, Kufri, Narkanda, and Solang Valley.
- Temp Drop: Day temperatures expected to plummet by 6-8°C.
Himachal Snowfall Forecast Jan 23: Shimla: The wait for a “White January” is ending. The Meteorological Centre, Shimla, has confirmed that an active Western Disturbance is approaching the state, which will trigger widespread precipitation starting tonight.
1. The Forecast: Where Will it Snow?
- High Hills (Orange Alert): The districts of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Kullu, and Chamba are bracing for heavy snowfall. This includes popular high-altitude hubs like the Atal Tunnel (South Portal), Sissu, and Rohtang Pass.
- Mid & Lower Hills (Yellow Alert): Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, and Solan are under a Yellow Alert. While higher reaches like Narkanda and Manali will see snow, towns like Dharamshala and Palampur (Kangra) are expected to receive heavy rainfall and thunderstorms with gusty winds.
2. Ending the ‘Dry Run’
Himachal Snowfall Forecast Jan 23: This spell is critical for the state’s ecology and agriculture. Data from early January showed a staggering 93-99% rainfall deficit in districts like Shimla and Kullu. The fresh spell is expected to provide much-needed moisture for the apple orchards and Rabi crops, which have been suffering under the dry cold.
3. Critical Travel Advisory
Himachal Snowfall Forecast Jan 23: With the issuance of alerts, the local administration has advised tourists to tread carefully.
- Slippery Roads: Roads leading to Narkanda, Kufri, and Manali may become slippery due to black ice and fresh snow.
- Atal Tunnel: Tourists planning to cross into Lahaul via the Atal Tunnel should check the status with the Manali Police Control Room before heading out, as the tunnel is often closed during heavy snow for safety.
- Visibility: Low visibility is expected on highways in the mid-hills due to dense fog and rain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: There is a high probability of snowfall in Kufri and Narkanda. Shimla town may witness light snowflakes or sleet mixed with rain, depending on how low the temperature drops.
A: While Manali is open, expect traffic disruptions. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and drive only during daylight hours if it is snowing. Volvo buses usually continue to operate unless conditions are severe.
A: The current spell will fade by Jan 24-25. However, a second Western Disturbance is predicted to hit the region around Jan 26, bringing another round of snow.
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AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
- Reported by: Kitto Weather Desk | Source: ThePrint / IMD Shimla (Jan 22, 2026).
- Disclaimer: Weather alerts are subject to rapid change. Please follow official advisories from District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMA).
