Rain, thunderstorms and hailstorms have been reported in parts of Himachal Pradesh, with a hailstorm reported in Sihunta of Chamba district. A visual from the area shows hailstones covering roads and open spaces as rain continues to lash the area. The weather activity comes just weeks after the southwest monsoon was withdrawn from Himachal Pradesh, and the state has now seen a change in weather conditions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms and lightning in Himachal Pradesh on October 7, 8 and 9. The IMD's latest warning also indicates that gusty winds are likely in some parts of the state as well.
Hailstorm And Rain Hit Chamba
Sihunta, located in Chamba district, experienced hailstorm activity during the rains and thunderstorms.
Chamba has been among the areas expected to experience unsettled weather during the current spell. The IMD's Chamba forecast for October 7 indicates thunderstorms with rain and a warning for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of around 30-40 kmph.
The weather also affects other parts of the state. Rainfall has been observed in Himachal Pradesh, Kangra, Shimla and other parts of the state, with heavy rain in Chamba, Kangra, Shimla and other areas where hailstorms have also been recorded.
The sudden change in weather has also raised concerns for farmers, especially in areas where crops are being harvested. Hail can damage standing crops and fruit orchards, while heavy rain can affect crops that have already been cut and left in fields.
Himachal Pradesh Weather Forecast
According to the latest IMD forecast, Himachal Pradesh is likely to experience thunderstorm and lightning activity through October 9. The weather department has issued warnings for October 7, 8 and 9, after which no broad warning is currently indicated for October 10 to 13.
The Shimla Meteorological Centre has also forecast light to moderate rain in several parts of the state, with isolated heavy rainfall possible in some locations. Light snowfall may also occur at higher elevations along with rain during the ongoing weather spell.
The unsettled conditions are also expected to bring a drop in temperatures. Minimum temperatures could fall by about 2-3 degrees Celsius, while maximum temperatures may decline by about 2-5 degrees Celsius over the next few days.
Rain, Hail and Thunderstorms After Monsoon Withdrawal
The current spell comes after the southwest monsoon withdrew from Himachal Pradesh. The monsoon's withdrawal was delayed compared to its normal schedule, and the state has since entered a period of changing weather conditions.
The present weather activity is being accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds in several districts. The IMD has specifically warned of thunderstorm and lightning activity in Himachal Pradesh on October 7-9.
Recent reports have also highlighted hailstorm activity in parts of the state, including areas around Palampur and other locations. Higher reaches of Chamba, Kullu and neighbouring regions have also seen conditions favourable for rain and early-season snowfall.
Hailstorm lashing 🌧️☔️🌊 📍Sihunta, Chamba District, Himachal Pradesh. Himachal is experiencing a spell of rain and thunderstorms following the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon, with a changing upper-air weather pattern. 🎥Pathan https://t.co/vRuu94GrqH
— Naveen Reddy (@navin_ankampali) October 7, 2026
For residents and travellers, the weather department has advised caution during thunderstorms, particularly in open areas and near trees. People in vulnerable areas should also remain alert to the possibility of waterlogging, landslides and sudden changes in road conditions during periods of heavy rain.
The hailstorm in Sihunta is another indication of the unsettled weather currently affecting Himachal Pradesh. With thunderstorms and rain expected to continue in parts of the state over the next few days, residents are advised to follow the latest local weather warnings and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather.
