A sharp cold wave gripped Himachal Pradesh on Saturday as temperatures in several high-altitude pockets slipped far below freezing, with Tabo in Lahaul district recording the state’s lowest minimum at –6.6°C. The chill deepened amid a prolonged dry spell, with officials confirming that all 12 districts have logged severe rainfall deficits through November. Advertisement

According to the local weather office, the state has recorded a 90% rainfall deficit so far this month, ranging from 65% in Kinnaur to 100% in Sirmaur. Shimla and Mandi reported a 99% deficit, while Chamba, Hamirpur and Kangra stood at 98%, leaving key agricultural belts anxious.

Cold wave conditions intensified across high mountain passes, where the mercury dipped 7–12 degrees below freezing, leading to widespread freez

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