Himachal Pradesh Weather Update: Orange Alert for Dense Fog in Bilaspur as Snowfall Looms in Higher Reaches
Temperatures plunge below 5°C in multiple towns; clear skies expected until late December when fresh snow likely in Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala regions.
Shimla, December 25, 2025 – Himachal Pradesh is grappling with intense winter chill as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for dense to very dense fog in Bilaspur district today. This is the first orange alert for fog this winter season, with visibility potentially dropping below 50 meters until late morning, posing risks for commuters and travelers.
The alert comes amid a prolonged dry spell, but relief is in sight. According to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, the weather will remain largely clear and dry from December 25 to 27, with abundant sunshine during the day. However, a change is expected towards the end of the month, with chances of light snowfall in higher altitudes between December 28 and 30. Popular tourist destinations like Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala could see fresh snow, delighting visitors hoping for a white New Year.
Night temperatures have already dipped sharply across the state. Reports indicate that minimum temperatures have fallen below 5°C in several locations, including tribal areas like Kukumseri (as low as -6.2°C in recent days), Kalpa, Tabo, and parts of Kullu and Kinnaur. Lower hill towns such as Una, Hamirpur, and Mandi are also experiencing severe cold, exacerbated by persistent fog in plains and reservoir areas like Bhakra Dam.
Authorities advise caution on roads due to low visibility in fog-prone districts, including Bilaspur, Mandi, Una, and Hamirpur. Tourists flocking to hill stations for Christmas and year-end celebrations are urged to check updates, as ground frost and black ice could make travel treacherous in higher reaches.
While a white Christmas remains unlikely this year due to the ongoing dry conditions, the forecasted late-December snowfall could boost tourism in snow-deprived spots like Rohtang Pass and Kufri.
Stay tuned for updates from the IMD as the Western Disturbance approaches.
