IMD Confirms Shimla's Minimum Temperature Hit 3.6°C, Breaking 1979 April Record

Shimla recorded its coldest April night in nearly four decades, with the minimum temperature dropping sharply to 3.6 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The unusual dip in temperature has been attributed to persistent unseasonal rain and snowfall across the region, triggered by active western disturbances. Officials said the latest reading marks one of the most significant temperature anomalies recorded in the hill station during April in recent years.

Data from the Meteorological Centre in Shimla indicates that the temperature drop has broken a long-standing record dating back to 1979, when the minimum temperature had fallen to approximately 3.4 degrees Celsius. The IMD noted that such low temperatures during April are rare, highlighting the intensity of the current weather pattern. The capital city and surrounding areas also recorded temperatures significantly below seasonal averages over the past few days.

IMD Himachal Pradesh head Shobhit Katiyar stated that continuous rainfall and snowfall over the last two to three days have led to a marked decline in temperatures across the state. He added that Shimla’s maximum temperature settled at 11.4 degrees Celsius, making it the lowest daytime temperature recorded in April in around 11 to 12 years. A similar daytime reading was last observed around 2015, underscoring the unusual nature of the current weather conditions.

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The impact of successive western disturbances has been widespread, bringing rain and snowfall to several parts of Himachal Pradesh, particularly in higher-altitude regions. In some areas, minimum temperatures dropped to as low as minus 1 degree Celsius, while daytime temperatures across the state fell by 10 to 12 degrees Celsius compared to normal levels. This sharp fluctuation has affected both urban and remote mountainous regions.

Rainfall across the state has also remained above normal levels. Between March 1 and April 10, Himachal Pradesh recorded 149 mm of rainfall, compared to the normal 136 mm, marking an increase of around 9 percent. In April alone, rainfall has been 142 percent above normal so far, although officials clarified that this does not qualify as a record-breaking event. Snowfall during April is not uncommon in higher regions such as Lahaul, Kullu, Chamba, and Kinnaur.

Looking ahead, the IMD has forecast largely clear weather for plains and mid-hill regions over the next five to seven days, with sunny conditions expected to prevail. However, isolated higher-altitude areas may experience light rain or snowfall on April 11 and 12. Another western disturbance is likely to affect the region between April 16 and 18, though its impact is expected to remain limited, with no heavy rainfall or snowfall anticipated.

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