Himachal & Kashmir get icy makeover as winter fades from most of India

The higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh have been covered in fresh snow, with Keylong, Manali, and Lahaul-Spiti witnessing significant accumulation. While the heavy snow and rain have disrupted daily life, farmers in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand welcome the precipitation, as it boosts water availability for agriculture. (ANI photo)

Following fresh snowfall, the risk of avalanches has surged, prompting warnings for high-altitude areas above 2,300 meters. Tourists and locals have been urged to exercise caution. (ANI photo)

Himachal Pradesh experienced below-normal temperatures, with Tabo recording -4.5°C. The cold wave is expected to persist, impacting daily life and travel. (ANI photo)

The rain and snow in February in Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh occur primarily due to Western Disturbances (WDs)— a weather system that brings moisture from the Mediterranean Sea, Caspian Sea, and Atlantic Ocean toward the Indian subcontinent. (ANI photo)

Yes, but with reduced intensity. By late March and April, Western Disturbances weaken, and temperatures rise, shifting snowfall to much higher altitudes only while rain occurs in the lower regions. (PTI photo)

The local Meteorological Department (MeT) has issued an orange warning for heavy to very heavy rain and snow in districts like Mandi, Kangra, Kullu, and Chamba. A yellow alert has been issued for heavy snow in Lahaul-Spiti and rain/snow in Shimla district. Una, Bilaspur, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Hamirpur are also expected to receive heavy rain. (PTI photo)

Srinagar and various parts of Kashmir received fresh snowfall on Thursday, while the higher reaches of the valley experienced moderate to heavy rainfall. Light snowfall started in Srinagar and the plains in the evening, following 24 hours of intermittent rain. (PTI photo)

The Meteorological Department has predicted continued rain and snowfall across Jammu and Kashmir for the next 24 hours, after which the weather is expected to improve. Authorities have advised residents to take necessary precautions, especially in avalanche-prone areas and regions experiencing travel disruptions due to heavy snowfall. (PTI photo)

Continuous snowfall and heavy rain have caused landslides and mudslides along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded. Snow clearance operations are underway. (PTI photo)

Heavy snowfall and icy roads have led to the closure of NH-5 near Narkanda, disrupting travel. Several other roads in Shimla and Lahaul-Spiti remain blocked. (PTI photo)

Unusual for February, parts of Maharashtra are experiencing their first heat wave of the year, despite winter technically still being in season. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday declared heat wave over parts of the north Maharashtra coast including Mumbai. (File photo)

North India’s snowfall and rain are due to western disturbances, cold air from the Himalayas, and jet streams, while Maharashtra’s heatwave is caused by anti-cyclonic conditions, dry air, and seasonal warming. Geographic differences, lack of rainfall, and climate change further intensify the contrasting weather patterns across both regions. (File photo)