winter calm... (pm.27.dec.11)>

as we approach the end of 2011, our weather pattern remains uneventful.  but of course... this is pretty much par for the course for this time of year.  although there continue to be some ripples in the upper-atmospheric flow gliding across the western himalayan region, the air is almost bone-dry from the surface into the highest levels, preventing the development of any significant rain or snowfall.

historically and climatologically speaking, things usually begin to change during the last week of december, however.  although there is nothing tangible to confirm that trend this year (yet), we are transitioning into the season when storm systems become more probable, and rain and snow chances increase.

keep an eye here and i'll attempt to give a "head's up", should our first significant winter storm system appear on the western horizon...

shortest day... (am.22.dec.11)>

the winter solstice occurs today, at 11:00am IST.  that means that there is the least amount of daylight of the year for locations in the northern hemisphere of our planet.  enjoy the darkness.

there have been a couple of upper-level disturbances riding the jetstream across northern india during the past several days, but thus far, i haven't had reports of any measurable rainfall in mcleod ganj.  if you have information to the contrary, let us know by commenting here, or by posting on our facebook page.

overnight temperatures, as well as daytime high temps, have fallen to around the coldest of the season.  rain and snow chances will be close to zero for the next few days at least... thanks to an absence of significant storm systems and appreciable moisture.

the next system... (pm.17.dec.11)>

the very normal mid-december weather that has been dominating recently may get shaken up during the next few days.  there is a rather vigorous, dynamic upper-level storm system that will be swinging eastward through the himalayas of northern india, bringing at least a mentionable chance of some rain and snow showers to the area, especially on monday and tuesday.

as is typical for this time of year, moisture is severely limited, so nothing more than light precipitation amounts are expected.  in fact, most of it should be confined to the higher mountains above the mcleod area.  keep an eye out and be prepared if you plan to be hiking and trekking during the first part of the week.!

it looks like temperatures will cool off another notch by mid-week, as this system passes by.

nothing menacing... (am.13.dec.11)>

the overall weather pattern will remain very stable and consistent over the course of the coming several days.  although it's not out of the question that a bit of upper-level instability could drift through and stir up a period of cloudiness and perhaps a mountain rain and/or snow shower, there is no indication that any significant storm system is waiting in the wings.

expect typical mid-december weather to prevail... which includes pleasant sunshine if you are able to take advantage of it... but chilly evenings and overnights.

again, any observations are greatly appreciated, which you can post as a comment here on the blog, or on our facebook page.  thanks to those of you who've given your input.

quiet and cool... (am.10.dec.11)>

showers earlier this week brought about 8mm (0.32") of rain to the area, but the weak storm system responsible has now moved out.  new snow is reported in the mountains of himachal.

it looks like we'll be back into a quiet and typically chilly weather pattern as we head into the middle of december.  no significant storm systems in sight... which is normal for this time of the year.

a bump in the road... (am.7.dec.11)>

although it shouldn't be much to get too concerned about, there will be an upper-level disturbance moving through during the next 2-3 days.  a couple of the computer models are showing a moderate chance of some scattered rain shower activity over parts of jammu/kashmir and himachal pradesh... and this time of year... the precipitation will most likely be in the form of snow in some areas above 2100m (6900m).

after a long period of dry and quiet weather, it's a good idea to be back in the mode of being prepared for inclement weather if you're going to be venturing into the higher elevations.

if you have any weather info or observations to report, leave a comment below, or post on our facebook page, to help keep others informed!

autumn calm... (pm.28.nov.11)>

the final few days of november are behaving pretty much as they should.  in fact, the weather pattern for the past couple of weeks has been typical for late autumn... which is nearly always the most quiet period of the entire year.

looking ahead... moisture will remain very limited, and the atmosphere will remain quite stable as we round out the month and enter december.  the later sunrises and earlier sunsets continue to allow temperatures to cool down ever-so-slowly... but there is still no indication of a significant blast of much colder, wintry air in the near future.

i'm on the opposite side of the planet right now, but i'll try to post semi-regularly, especially if it looks like any significant changes are threatening.

inactive... (pm.21.nov.11)>

a massive ridge of high pressure in the upper atmosphere is dominating the weather pattern across almost all of india recently.  but that means different things for different parts of the country.  here at the higher elevations along the mountain slopes, it means plenty of sunshine, along with above normal temperatures.  at lower elevations... especially down on the plains, it spells INVERSION... which means slightly cooler air is trapped below warmer air in the mid- and upper-levels, aiding in the development of fog during the overnight and early morning hours.

some high clouds will be streaming in from the west from time to time during the next few days, otherwise we'll continue to see a good amount of sunshine, with temperatures running quite a bit warmer than normal for the end of november.

there are no storm systems on the horizon at all, and our airmass is very stable... so precipitation chances will remain virtually nil for at least the next several days...

clear and milder... (pm.18.nov.11)>

yet another nearly perfect november evening in progress.  we have clear skies at sunset, with temps falling from a high of 63.5F (17.5C), which occurred around 1:30pm.

today could most likely go in the TOP TEN LIST of sunniest days of 2011.  there was only meager development of a few scruffy cumulus clouds over the mountains this afternoon, otherwise, we had nearly wall-to-wall sunshine.  a weak upper-level disturbance will be passing by well to our north during the coming 24 hours or so, but it will go virtually unnoticed around here.  after it passes, a ridge of high pressure in the mid- and upper-levels will build across northern india, and that should keep us firmly enveloped in a fair weather pattern all the way into the middle of next week.

temperatures are already starting to slowly moderate, and it looks like we'll be enjoying some slightly warmer than average temps, in addition to all the sunshine, during the next several days... at least.

FRIDAY NIGHT: clear skies.
low: 12C (53F)

SATURDAY: mostly sunny and pleasantly mild.
high: 18C (64F)

SUNDAY: sunshine continues to dominate.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

MONDAY: plenty of sun... above normal temps.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

TUESDAY: sunshine and a few high clouds. 'warm' for november.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

WEDNESDAY: a mix of sunshine and high clouds.  still warm-ish.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

loads of sunshine... (am.18.nov.11)>

we have absolutely clear skies again at sunrise this morning.  humidity stands at 51%, and i've recorded an overnight low (and current temp) of 52.7F (11.5C), which is bit milder than it has been all week.

other than a weak upper-level disturbance that is expected to slide by well to the north of us during the first part of the weekend, our weather pattern remains calm and quiet.  the seasonably cool air we've been experiencing all week is going to be gradually replaced by a milder airmass, as a rather strong ridge of high pressure builds across northern india during the next several days.  temps from the surface through the middle and upper levels of the atmosphere will be on the rise, and the airmass should remain quite stable.

that means we should continue to enjoy mostly sunny skies and dry conditions as we head into the final 1/3 of november.  just what we would expect during this typically uneventful time of the year...

FRIDAY: sunny skies this morning, with a just a few mountain clouds during the PM.
high: 17C (63F)

FRIDAY NIGHT: mostly clear skies.
low: 12C (53F)

SATURDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and pleasantly mild.
high: 18C (64F)

SUNDAY: mostly sunny... gradual warming trend continues.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

MONDAY: sun and perhaps a few high clouds.  unseasonably mild.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

TUESDAY: sunshine and a few high clouds.  'warm' for november.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

it's quiet... (pm.17.nov.11)>

a calm, quiet, clear and cool evening in progress...  there were only a few cumulus clouds over the mountains this afternoon, otherwise the sun was in control of things.  i recorded a high temp of 61.9F (16.6C), while humidity averaged around 55%.

we continue to move deeper and deeper into "uneventful" territory, which is actually very normal for this time of year.  the weather pattern is totally devoid of storms and/or signficant disturbances, and should remain that way for the next several days at least.  afternoon cloudiness has been diminishing day by day this week, and as some warmer air starts to move in aloft, that should keep us in line for mostly sunny skies.

over the weekend, a nice ridge of high pressure will be building across nothern india... keeping things quiet and calm, but allowing temperatures to warm back up above normal for awhile.  super-fantastic late autumn weather.

THURSDAY NIGHT: clear and cool.
low: 11C (52F)

FRIDAY: mostly sunny skies.
high: 17C (63F)

SATURDAY: a mix of sunshine and some high clouds.  pleasantly mild.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

SUNDAY: sun and a few high clouds.  above normal temps.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

MONDAY: mostly sunny and mild.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

TUESDAY: partly to mostly sunny and 'warm' for november.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

november niceness... (am.17.nov.11)>

our dawn sky is 100% clear this morning.  i've recorded an overnight low of 50.9F (10.5C)... the low temps the past three nights have been the coolest of the season thus far.  humidity this morning is 55%.

our weather pattern remains pretty much the same -- dead calm.  even the flow in the upper atmosphere has calmed down in the past 24 hours or so, as a high pressure ridge in the mid- and upper-levels begins to build.  things are looking quiet and stable as we approach the weekend, with lots of sunshine expected, along with the usual afternoon clouds, mainly over the mountains.  but... there are indications that even that daily phenomenon my be overtaken by sunshine just a little more, day by day.

this period of cool weather we've been in the midst of for the past several days will also likely give way to a bit of a warming trend.  it looks like we could be back well above normal for mid-november by sunday or monday.

THURSDAY: sunny this morning, with a few mountain clouds during the afternoon.
high: 17C (62F)

THURSDAY NIGHT: mostly clear skies.
low: 11C (52F)

FRIDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and a bit milder.
high: 18C (64F)

SATURDAY: sunshine... with just a few PM clouds.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

SUNDAY: mostly sunny.  above normal temps.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

MONDAY: sunshine and some high clouds.  pleasant for november.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

basically on course... (pm.15.nov.11)>

skies are mostly clear just after sunset this evening.  the afternoon clouds cleared out much more quickly today than during the past couple of days, which may be a sign of improvement for the rest of the week.  i recorded a high temp of 61.7F (16.5C) with no rainfall, and humidity averaging around 60%.

we remain in a holding pattern... fairly strong west-northwest flow aloft, with a rather cool and moist airmass in place here along the front ranges of the himalayas.  apart from a couple of random, isolated rain and snow showers in the higher reaches of the mountains, no precipitation is expected for the next several days.  the greater percentage of sunshine we saw today may be due to more stability between temperatures in differing layers of our airmass... but the potential for clouds vs. sunshine will have to be weighed on a day-by-day basis.  still... sunshine will remain most prevalent during the morning hours.

by friday, it looks like warmer air will begin to manifest gradually in all levels of the atmosphere... so we may end up back above normal, temperature-wise, by the weekend.  in our immediate future, tonight could be the coolest night of the season...

TUESDAY NIGHT: mostly clear and cool.
low: 10C (50F)

WEDNESDAY: mostly sunny in the morning, then partly cloudy during the PM.
high: 16C (60F)

THURSDAY: a mix of sunshine and a few clouds.  still on the cool side.
morning low: 10C (50F)
daytime high: 16C (61F)

FRIDAY: partly to mostly sunny.
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

SATURDAY: sunshine and a few high clouds.  a bit milder.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

SUNDAY: mostly sunny and quite pleasant for november.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

sun-clouds-cool... (am.15.nov.11)>

our sky is totally clear as the sun peeks over the mountains early this morning.  i've recorded my coolest temp of the season overnight, 51.3F (10.7C).  humidity stands at 65% to start the day.

no real changes to report... the weather pattern remains the same, with no large scale changes expected until perhaps the very end of the week.  we should continue to see a good amount of morning sunshine, followed by the build-up of clouds from the mid-day through the afternoon and early evening hours, with clearing again after sunset.  there is a slight chance of a couple of random rain and snow showers higher up in the mountains, but there will be nothing substantial.

temperatures are finally down where they should be this time of year.  all in all, our autumn thus far has been on the mild side.  there are indications that we may warm up a few degrees, starting on friday, but until then, it will remain seasonably chilly.

TUESDAY: mostly sunny this morning, but becoming partly to mostly cloudy by the PM hours.  cool.
high: 15C (59F)

TUESDAY NIGHT: some evening clouds giving way to mostly clear skies.  chilly temps.
low: 10C (50F)

WEDNESDAY: a mix of sunshine and some clouds.
high: 15C (59F)

THURSDAY: sunny to partly cloudy... still seasonably cool.
morning low: 10C (50F)
daytime high: 16C (60F)

FRIDAY: sun and some high clouds.  a bit milder.
morning low: 11C (52F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

SATURDAY: mostly sunny and pleasantly mild.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

gloom overtakes sun... (pm.14.nov.11)>

these dreary clouds are hanging in thick and tough right at sunset this evening.  the sunshine was in control until about noon, but then fought hard to show itself during most of the PM hours.  according to my records, today's high temp of 59.9F (15.5C) was the coldest since the 11th of march!  we definitely took a significant step toward the winter season today.

large scale weather features are virtually unchanged, and will remain stagnant until the very end of the week.  however, small, micro-scale factors are in control of our weather pattern here on the southwest-facing slopes of the dhauladars.  just like we experienced back during the first week of october, trapped moisture along the front ranges of the mountains, along with variable temperatures in different levels of the atmosphere are causing this gloomy cloudiness during the PM hours.  satellite pics show all kinds of glorious sunshine across most of the rest of northern india.  just our particular challenge to deal with.  for now, get up early if you want to enjoy the sunshine, and we'll see if some of these micro-scale factors change in our favor.

this rather cool airmass will hang in through thursday... but then there are indications of a bit of a warm-up as we head into the weekend.

MONDAY NIGHT: evening clouds giving way to mostly clear skies.  cool temps.
low: 11C (51F)

TUESDAY: sunshine mainly in the morning, with partly to mostly cloudy skies in the PM.
high: 15C (59F)

WEDNESDAY: sunny in the morning, partly cloudy in the afternoon.  still quite cool...
morning low: 10C (50F)
daytime high: 15C (59F)

THURSDAY: partly sunny skies.
morning low: 9C (49F)
daytime high: 15C (59F)

FRIDAY: a mix of sun and a few clouds.  not quite as cool.
morning low: 11C (52F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

SATURDAY: partly to mostly sunny and milder.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

coolest of the season... (am.14.nov.11)>

our sky is mostly clear at sunrise this morning.  i've recorded an overnight low of 52.3F (11.3C)... at my place here on tushita road.  the humidity this morning stands at 62%.

we are in the midst of the coolest weather of the autumn season... and it appears that temperatures will likely drop another couple of degrees, both highs and lows, by the middle of the week.  this is the kind of weather that is definitely chilly if you're not able to be in the direct sunshine.

the general weather pattern is quiet, but a fast moving flow of air aloft, from the west and northwest, will continue to bring a few minor ripples through the area.  for us, that simply means having to contend with periods of cloudiness, especially during the afternoon hours... but higher up in the mountains, it could mean at least a slight chance of a couple of rain and snow showers.  always be prepared for anything if you are venturing up above 3000m (11,000ft).

MONDAY: early morning sunshine giving way to partly cloudy skies.  mostly cloudy at times during the PM.
high: 17C (62F)

MONDAY NIGHT: a few evening clouds, then clearing and cool.
low: 11C (51F)

TUESDAY: a mix of sun and clouds, along with a slight chance of a brief PM shower.
high: 16C (61F)

WEDNESDAY: partly sunny and cool.
morning low: 10C (50F)
daytime high: 16C (60F)

THURSDAY: partly to mostly sunny.  still seasonably cool.
morning low: 10C (50F)
daytime high: 16C (61F)

FRIDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and a bit milder.
morning low: 11C (52F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

chill in the air... (pm.13.nov.11)>

we have hazy and partly cloudy skies during the half hour before sunset this evening.  it has been a relatively cool day... with a high temp of just 62.2F (16.8C), which occurred just after 3:00pm.  although there was some sunshine, the clouds had the upper hand today, with humidity averaging around 65%.

there is a rip-roaring jetstream blasting across the western himalayas right now in the highest levels of the atmosphere.  that, combined with cold air aloft and just enough moisture along the front ranges of the mountains has prevented us from enjoying the full sunshine we would like to see.  despite the occasionally gloomy skies, there are no real storm systems threatening... and that should remain the case right through the coming week.  today there were a couple of isolated showers in the higher mountains, and that kind of activity can't be entirely ruled out during the next few days.  there is even a risk of one of those showers making it down to our elevation, perhaps on tuesday.

the chill is definitely back in the air... and these seasonably cool temps should stick around until the very end of the week, when we could experience a a bit of a rebound.

SUNDAY NIGHT: becoming mostly clear.  quite cool.
low: 11C (52F)

MONDAY: seasonably cool temps, with a mix of sun and clouds.
high: 17C (62F)

TUESDAY: periods of sun in the midst of clouds.  cool, with a slight chance of a shower.
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 16C (61F)

WEDNESDAY: partly to mostly sunny and chilly.
morning low: 10C (50F)
daytime high: 16C (61F)

THURSDAY: sunshine and a few clouds.
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

FRIDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and a bit milder.
morning low: 11C (52F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

both sunshine and clouds... (am.13.nov.11)>

a couple of clouds are hovering over the mountains early this morning, otherwise we have a mostly clear sky... humidity is high, at 72%.  the overnight low here on tushita road just below the mountaineering center has been 54.5F (12.5C).

as i mentioned on last evening's post, our weather pattern will be fairly uneventful during the next several days, but not as calm, clear and quiet as it was during the first half of last week... when we had a couple of days with nearly 100% sunshine.  the mid- and upper-level flow is rather brisk from the west, and there will be a handful of minor ripples and cold pockets aloft which will likely prevent us from seeing full sunshine.  still... rain chances will be very slight, although a brief afternoon/early evening shower can't be totally ruled out... especially uphill from mcleod.

after last week's extremely mild temperatures, we are already dipping back closer to normal for november, but there are indications we could start to warm up again by the end of this week.

SUNDAY: sun mixed with occasional clouds... perhaps mostly cloudy for awhile during the afternoon.
high: 17C (63F)

SUNDAY NIGHT: clear to partly cloudy and cooler.
low: 11C (52F)

MONDAY: sunny to partly cloudy.
high: 17C (62F)

TUESDAY: partly sunny and seasonably cool.
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 16C (61F)

WEDNESDAY: a mix of sun and clouds.
morning low: 10C (50F)
daytime high: 16C (61F)

THURSDAY: partly to mostly sunny.
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

returning to normal... (pm.12.nov.11)>

it is partly to mostly cloudy at sunset this evening... and there could even be one or two light showers in the area by the looks of some of the clouds, although i haven't personally seen any raindrops.  today's high temp was 64.0F (17.8C), with humidity rather high... in the 60-70% range for most of the day.

our sunny morning gave way to occasional clouds during the mid-day, afternoon and evening hours... evidence of  a decent amount of moisture in the mid-levels of the atmosphere, and the arrival of colder air aloft.  although our weather pattern during the next several days will be generally quiet, it is not looking to be as "clean" and dead calm as the one we enjoyed during the first part of this week.  we'll likely see lots of morning sunshine, but then the potential for varying degrees of cloudiness during the afternoon hours.  significant rainfall chances will remain very small.

temperatures have already cooled down a few degrees from where they were on thursday and friday, and should continue to slide during at least the first part of the new week.

SATURDAY NIGHT: a few sprinkles possible in the area early this evening, then becoming mostly clear by midnight.  cooler.
low: 12C (53F)

SUNDAY: morning sunshine, with some clouds around by noon, til the evening hours.
high: 17C (63F)

MONDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and seasonably cool.
morning low: 11C (52F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

TUESDAY: a mix of sunshine and some clouds at times.
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

WEDNESDAY: partly to mostly sunny... seasonably cool.
morning low: 10C (50F)
daytime high: 16C (61F)

THURSDAY: both sunshine and some clouds.
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 16C (61F)

friendly weekend... (am.12.nov.11)>

a beautiful, sunny morning underway... the current humidity reading is 58%, and the overnight low has been a relatively mild 56.3F (13.5C).  i measured 0.02" (less than 1mm) of rainfall in the past 24 hours.  some new snow has fallen up on the dhauladars, but i haven't heard anything specific about amounts yet.

things are looking good for the next few days, as our generally mild and dry november continues on.  the upper-level disturbance which moved through on thursday and friday kept us in and out of the clouds (more in), and brought a paltry round or two of light showers, but that system has now dissipated.  it is being replaced by a flat west-to-east flow at the jetstream level which looks benign at this point.

we should see lots of sunshine into early next week... but will still have to watch for the afternoon build-up of clouds over the mountains, and perhaps a shower up there, especially today.  temperatures remain above normal, but should be cooling slightly over the course of the next three or four days.  we have yet to taste any truly colder, winter-like temps this season... but i hear no complaints.

SATURDAY: morning sunshine, with some clouds during the PM.  slight chance of a brief shower up the mountain towards triund.  temps still above normal.
high: 18C (65F)

SATURDAY NIGHT: mostly clear, slightly cooler.
low: 12C (53F)

SUNDAY: mostly sunny and pleasantly cool.
high: 17C (63F)

MONDAY: sunshine and just a few PM clouds.  cooling trend...
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

TUESDAY: sunny to partly cloudy.
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 16C (61F)

WEDNESDAY: partly cloudy and seasonably cool.
morning low: 10C (50F)
daytime high: 16C (61F)

clearing out... (pm.11.nov.11)>

there are still some light showers lingering around town just after sunset this evening, otherwise skies are partly cloudy.  there were a few sprinkles and brief showers around the area around 10:30am, then our latest round which began just after 4:00pm.  in my rain gauge, it has been barely measurable... perhaps a couple of hundredths of an inch at best.  today's high temp hit 70.7F (21.5C) just after 1:00pm... according to my records, that's the warmest temp since october 20th, and will likely end up being our maximum temperature for the month of november.

just a peek toward the mountains today indicates there has been a lot more precipitation up there than we've had  further downhill.  there were at least two rounds of moderate rain and snow showers, so the snow that had melted on the passes during the last several days has been replaced.  the upper-level disturbance responsible for the rain and snow is moving out this evening, replaced by what looks to be a quiet, west-to-east flow of air aloft during the coming several days.  rain chances should all but disappear again as we get into the weekend.

our unseasonably warm temps are also on their way out... there is no major blast of cold air behind this system, but we should at least return closer to seasonal averages day by day into the middle of next week.

FRIDAY NIGHT: any evening showers rapidly ending... with clearing skies.  a bit cooler.
low: 13C (56F)

SATURDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and not as warm.  perhaps a brief PM mountain shower.
high: 18C (64F)

SUNDAY: sunshine in the morning, with some mountain clouds during the afternoon.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

MONDAY: sun and a few clouds.
morning low: 11C (52F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

TUESDAY: a mix of sunshine and clouds.
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 16C (61F)

WEDNESDAY: both sunshine and some clouds.  seasonably cool.
morning low: 10C (50F)
daytime high: 16C (61F)

disturbance moving through... (am.11.nov.11)>

it's cloudy at sunrise this morning, with the humidity at 44%.  my overnight low was 61.2F (16.2C), which is outrageously warm for the second week of november.  i'm not aware of any rainfall in the immediate mcleod ganj area overnight, but satellite pics seem to indicate there is a mix of rain and snow happening up at the higher elevations.

our disturbance in the upper atmosphere will be moving through today, causing temperatures aloft to cool significantly.  since very mild air remains in the lowest levels, instability will be on the increase.  a period of rain and/or thundershowers is not a sure thing, but keep in mind the potential to get hit by something anytime today, into early tonight.  one computer model is pegging 2.0cm/0.80" of rain for us... that could be way overblown, but at least alerts us to the possibility of a decent round of showers.  of course there will be new snow on the dhauladar passes and peaks, so don't be caught clueless up there.

a fairly quick turn to sunnier, brighter and gradually cooler weather is expected starting over the weekend... lasting well into next week.

FRIDAY: clouds and a few peeks of sun.  mild, with a chance of a period or two of showers and thundershowers.
high: 19C (66F)

FRIDAY NIGHT: a couple of showers and/or thundershowers in the area this evening, then becoming mostly clear by midnight.  cooler.
low: 13C (55F)

SATURDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and slightly cooler.
high: 18C (64F)

SUNDAY: sunshine and a few clouds.  temps back closer to normal for november.
morning low: 11C (52F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

MONDAY: mostly sunny skies.
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

TUESDAY: lots of sunshine.
morning low: 10C (50F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

clouds in control... (pm.10.nov.11)>

we have a mostly cloudy sky at sunset this evening, with the humidity holding near 50%.  despite the clouds which thickened up steadily throughout the day, we reached a very mild high temp of 66.7F (19.3C) just after 11am.  there has been no rainfall, so far.

upper-level energy is now moving into northern india, along with a pocket of much colder air aloft.  that will steadily destabilize the atmosphere during the coming 24 hours, which could lead to a period or two of rain or thundershowers.  two of the four main computer models are indicating at least some light precipitation totals across our area by tomorrow night, while the other two models keep rain/snow confined to the higher elevations.  don't be surprised if we get a couple of showers and maybe some thunder here in mcleod... but be especially prepared if you will be up above triund.

it looks like we'll quickly revert to generally sunny autumn weather after this system clears out of here over the weekend, as temperatures drop several degrees by early next week...

THURSDAY NIGHT: mostly cloudy with a chance of some light rain, or perhaps a thundershower overnight.  unseasonably mild.
low: 14C (58F)

FRIDAY: partly to mostly cloudy skies with a couple of rain showers (with thunder?) possible.  temps remaining above normal.
high: 19C (66F)

SATURDAY: a mix of sunshine and a few patches of clouds.  a bit cooler.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

SUNDAY: partly to mostly sunny and cooler.
morning low: 11C (52C)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

MONDAY: sunny to partly cloudy skies.
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

TUESDAY: mostly sunny and seasonably cool.
morning low: 10C (50F)
daytime high: 16C (61F)

potential for action... (am.10.nov.11)>

we have glimmers of sunshine through a broken layer of high clouds this morning, with a humidity reading of 47%.  i recorded an overnight low of 59.0F (15.0C)... the warmest since the 21st of october.  it really doesn't get much milder than this to start a morning during the month of november.

satellite pics are showing a huge area of broken mid- and high clouds extending from the arabian sea through pakistan, into northwest india.  all of this is in advance of the upper-level disturbance that will be plowing southeastward during the next 36 hours or so.  although low-level moisture is very limited up here in himachal, there will probably be enough dynamic energy with this system to stir up some scattered showers and thundershowers later today, tonight and friday.  rainfall amounts are still expected to be generally light here in mcleod, but stay tuned for updates should things start developing!

there will likely be accumulating snow again up on the dhualadars between this afternoon and friday evening, along with a sharp turn to colder temps.  don't be caught unprepared up there.

we'll remain a few degrees warmer than normal today... and possibly on friday as well, before some cooler air filters in over the weekend.

THURSDAY: a mix of clouds and occasional peeks of sunshine.  chance of a shower or thundershower developing this afternoon.  unseasonably mild.
high: 19C (67F)

THURSDAY NIGHT: a good chance of scattered showers and/or thundershowers in the area, otherwise mostly cloudy and mild.
low: 14C (58F)

FRIDAY: partly to mostly cloudy with a shower or two possible.  still relatively mild.
high: 19C (67F)

SATURDAY: sunshine and just a few clouds.  cooling off a bit.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

SUNDAY: sunny to partly cloudy... back closer to normal temps.
morning low: 11C (52F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

MONDAY: a mix of sunshine and a few clouds.
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

a veil of cirrus... (pm.8.nov.11)>

we have a broken high overcast sky this evening at sunset.  despite the limited sunshine, i recorded the warmest high temp since the 26th of october (diwali) @ 65.7F (18.7C).  our humidity reading hovered in the 50-55% range for most of the day.

the big ridge of high pressure which provided us with tons of sunshine during the first part of the week is in the process of dissolving, as a batch of upper-level energy continues to approach from the west.  temperatures in all layers of the atmosphere are quite a bit above normal for this time of year.  that very warm air aloft combined with some tropical moisture being pulled northward ahead of the approaching disturbance is what brought us the high level cirrus clouds today.

things may get a little more interesting and active during the coming 48 hours or so, as this disturbance moves across northern india.  computer models are in a state of disagreement, but there is a general consensus that scattered showers and perhaps some thundershowers will develop on thursday into friday across kashmir and parts of himachal pradesh.  rainfall amounts should be on the light side (less than 1cm/0.40") if we get any at all, but any sort of measureable rain during november is a notable event.  of course rain showers at our elevation this time of year equals snow up on the dhauladar passes... so be ready for that, trekkers and climbers.

temps will remain above normal for another day or maybe two... until cooler air flows back in over the weekend.  but still, nothing particularly cold for this time of year is on the horizon.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT: partly to mostly cloudy and unusually mild.
low: 14C (57F)

THURSDAY: periods of both clouds and some sun, with a couple of showers or thundershowers possible.  still very mild for november.
high: 19C (67F)

FRIDAY: chance of a shower or thundershower in the area, otherwise partly cloudy.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

SATURDAY: partly cloudy and a bit cooler.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 17C (63F)

SUNDAY: sunny to partly cloudy skies.
morning low: 11C (52F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

MONDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and seasonably cool.
morning low: 11C (51F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

unseasonably mild... (am.9.nov.11)>

the milder air has finally arrived.  my overnight low has been 56.8F (13.8C)... the warmest i've recorded since oct 22nd... nearly three weeks ago.  skies are partly cloudy just before sunrise this morning, with a humidity reading of 48%.

the nearly cloudless skies of the past couple of days are now a thing of the past, it appears.  the big high pressure ridge which has been in charge of the weather pattern recently is now beginning to break down, as strong westerly jet stream winds are crashing into it, carrying the first in a series of upper-level disturbances into north india during the coming 12-24 hours.  that means we will see more clouds, initially of the high and mid-level variety, and increasing chances of some showers and possible thundershowers, especially on thursday and friday.  it's been a great few days to be in the mountains, but if you are venturing up above 3000m/11,000ft or so, heading into the latter part of the week, be prepared for a sudden turn to nasty conditions.

temperatures on the back side of our retreating high pressure ridge will be quite a bit above normal through friday... but we should drop back closer to the realm of climatological averages over the weekend.

WEDNESDAY: a mix of sunshine and high clouds.  unseasonably mild for november.
high: 19C (67F)

WEDNESDAY NIGHT: partly cloudy and mild, with a slight chance of a passing shower.
low: 14C (57F)

THURSDAY: partly cloudy skies.  one or two showers/thundershowers possible, mainly in the PM.  warmer than normal temps!
high: 20C (68F)

FRIDAY: a mix of clouds and periods of sun, with a good chance of a round of showers and/or thundershowers.  still mild.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

SATURDAY: partly cloudy and turning a bit cooler.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

SUNDAY: partly cloudy with a chance of a passing shower.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 17C (63F)

will it last..? (pm.8.nov.11)>

today definitely has been a contender for the "sunniest day of 2011" prize.  there were just a few high cirrus clouds drifting through, and only a handful of short-lived cumulus clouds over the mountains during the mid-afternoon hours.  downright gorgeous.  mysteriously, i recorded a high temp of 63.1F (17.3C) for the third straight day, so we haven't yet gotten down to business with regard to the advertised warming trend.  still... if you've been able to spend any time in the sunshine, it has been toasty warm.

already our atmosphere is readjusting... as a more active pattern organizes to our west.  we may get one more day of quiet weather before rain chances will be on the increase.  a general trough of low pressure will slide into the western himalayan region by the end of the week, and that will flatten out the high pressure ridge which has been responsible for the almost unlimited sunshine of the past few days.  new data coming in is suggesting that we may stand a better chance of some measurable rainfall starting on thursday, with that chance continuing into the early part of next week.

i'm still (maybe stubbornly) holding onto the expectation of a moderate warming trend during the next couple of days... already, temps are a bit above normal for this time of year, nonetheless.

TUESDAY NIGHT: clear to partly cloudy skies.
low: 12C (54F)

WEDNESDAY: a mix of sunshine and some high clouds.  above normal november temps.
high: 19C (67F)

THURSDAY: partly cloudy with a chance of a shower or thundershower in the area.  mild temps.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

FRIDAY: both clouds and sun, with a shower or two possible.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

SATURDAY: partly cloudy with a slight chance of a shower.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

SUNDAY: a chance of showers, otherwise partly cloudy and cooler.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

sunshine presides... (am.8.nov.11)>

there are a few patches of high cirrus clouds drifting through just prior to sunrise, otherwise skies are mostly clear this morning.  the overnight low has been 52.7F (11.5C), and the humidity stands at 52%.

other than satellite photos, there is not a shred of new data available this morning... computers are down somewhere, obviously.  will just update the short term and wait til new data comes in before making any other adjustments to the going forecast.

still looking nice for another couple of days... plenty of sun... gradually rising temps... comfortable november weather!  this high pressure ridge is centered right over north india today, keeping things quiet, but by the end of the week, it will start to break down, which could bring us a chance of a shower or two, and eventually usher in some cooler temps over the weekend.

*by the way, in case you missed it... there was a 5.5 earthquake in the hindu kush region of extreme northeastern afghanistan, near the pakistan border last evening at 5:29pm IST.  i felt it... gentle shaking that seemed to last only about 5-10 seconds here.  thought i had an overactive imagination til i checked online last night.  a short article here.

TUESDAY: sunshine, with a few scattered clouds at times.  warming a bit.
high: 19C (66F)

TUESDAY NIGHT: clear to partly cloudy and rather mild.
low: 13C (55F)

WEDNESDAY: sun along with some high clouds.  unseasonably mild.
high: 20C (68F)

THURSDAY: a mix of sunshine and clouds, with a risk of a late day shower.  warm for november!
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

FRIDAY: partly cloudy with a shower or thundershower possible.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

SATURDAY: partly cloudy and turning cooler.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

fall classic... (pm.7.nov.11)>

other than a few wisps of very high cirrus clouds, skies are clear this evening just after sunset.  today turned out to be the sunniest day of the post-monsoon season... and according to my records, it was way back in april that we had a day with so few clouds.  there were only a handful of anaemic-looking cumulus clouds over the mountain peaks for a couple of hours early this afternoon, and a few very thin strips of cirrus.  i recorded a high temp of 63.1F (17.3C)... as humidity ranged generally between 50-55%.

the dramatic warming in the upper atmosphere today squashed the usual afternoon development of clouds over the mountains... thanks to the ridge of high pressure which continues to develop across north india.  there  isn't much evidence of warming here at our elevation yet, but i still expect us to jump up a few degrees during the coming 2-3 days.  that will put us well above normal for november.

the fair and mild pattern won't last for long, it appears.  already, there is indication of a couple of new upper-level disturbances arriving between late thursday and sunday, and that will give us at least a slight chance of getting some random showers, while eventually cooling our temps back down to seasonal averages.  in the meantime... enjoy this gorgeous stuff while it lasts...

MONDAY NIGHT: mostly clear skies.  not quite as cool.
low: 13C (55F)

TUESDAY: sunshine and a few high clouds.  mild for november.
high: 19C (67F)

WEDNESDAY: a mix of sun and mainly high clouds.  unseasonably warm.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

THURSDAY: partly cloudy with pleasant temps.  slight chance of a late day shower.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (70F)

FRIDAY: partly cloudy.  a shower or two possible.
morning low: 14C (58F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

SATURDAY: partly to mostly sunny and turning a bit cooler.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

milder air intruding.. (am.7.nov.11)>

we have clear skies just before sunrise this morning.  my current temp (and overnight low) here at the top of mcleod ganj is 53.2F (11.8C), with a humidity reading of 62%.

today is going to be interesting, from a weathergeek perspective. a huge ridge of high pressure is building across the area throughout all layers of the atmosphere... that implies sinking, drying and warming of the airmass.  however, if the mid-levels warm more quickly than the surface, we could end up with an inversion, which could cause a layer of clouds to develop by the afternoon.  i'm very anxious to see how that plays out.

for now, i'm going for a generally sunny scenario, along with a healthy warming trend as we head through the next few days...  we could see temps well above normal for november by the middle of the week.  rain chances are virtually nil until friday, when we could get clipped by an upper-level disturbance that will be breaking down our high pressure ridge.

MONDAY: mostly sunny this morning, then partly cloudy during the afternoon.  milder.
high: 18C (65F)

MONDAY NIGHT: mostly clear and not as cool.
low: 13C (55F)

TUESDAY: sunny to partly cloudy.  unseasonably mild.
high: 19C (67F)

WEDNESDAY: a mix of sunshine and clouds.  pleasant temps.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

THURSDAY: partly cloudy and unseasonably warm.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (70F)

FRIDAY: partly cloudy with a chance of a shower or two around the area.  still warmish.
morning low: 14C (58F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

stormless pattern... (pm.6.nov.11)>

the sky is partly cloudy just after sunset this evening, at the end of day which featured full morning sunshine, and then a build-up of mountain clouds during the afternoon.  i recorded a high temp of 63.1F (17.3C), which was actually a bit cooler than i had expected.

our atmosphere is in another state of transition, as a massive area of high pressure develops across nothern india, from the surface into the highest levels.  computer models are forecasting a rather robust warming trend this week, along with plenty of sun until at least wednesday.  my concern which dampens my enthusiasm about a nice warm-up centers on the fear that the warmer air from the plains riding up the mountains may simply produce a layer of mid- and low level clouds... we've seen that time and time again, during just about any season of the year.  for now, i'll go with the sunshine and warming trend, but it'll have to be carefully watched for potential spoilage.!

rainfall potential should be slim at best, until the very end of the week when the next weather system starts to displace our ridge of high pressure.  still... there is nothing to suggest any kind of signifcant rain and/or storminess in the next week or so.

SUNDAY NIGHT: partly cloudy this evening... becoming clear overnight.
low: 12C (54F)

MONDAY: mostly sunny in the morning, with mainly mountain clouds during the PM.  not as cool.
high: 19C (66F)

TUESDAY: sunshine, with just a few mountain clouds.  unseasonably warm.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

WEDNESDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and mild.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

THURSDAY: a mix of sun and clouds.  on the warmer side.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (70F)

FRIDAY: partly cloudy with a chance of a shower or thundershower.
morning low: 14C (58F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

warming trend ahead... (am.6.nov.11)>

it's clear and cool just before sunrise this morning.  my low temp has been 52.3F (11.3C), with a current humidity reading of 52%.  there has been no rainfall in the past 24 hours.

it looks like we are heading into a stretch of weather that will be absolutely beautiful... and eventually, quite a bit warmer than normal for november.  a big, sprawling area of high pressure from the surface into the upper atmosphere is developing, and should dominate all of nothern india for most of the coming week.  we are likely to see almost unlimited sunshine, low humidity, with the chance of any rain: virtually zero.  that doesn't happen too often here along the front slopes of the dhauladars.  even up at the highest elevations, it should be about as dry and (relatively) warm as it ever gets during this time of year.

of course, on the edge of the himalayas, there is always the potential for surprises (both good and bad), and things can change in a heartbeat... so check back here as we see if this sunny and unusually warm scenario actually plays out in reality!

SUNDAY: sunny this morning, with a few clouds over the mountains in the afternoon.
high: 19C (66F)

SUNDAY NIGHT: clear skies.  not quite as cool.
low: 12C (54F)

MONDAY: mostly sunny and unseasonably mild.
high: 20C (68F)

TUESDAY: lots of sunshine... pleasant temps.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

WEDNESDAY: mostly sunny... warm for november.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (70F)

THURSDAY: a mix of sunshine and high clouds.  still unseasonably warm.
morning low: 14C (58F)
daytime high: 21C (70F)

super nice... (pm.5.nov.11)>

a fantastic november evening is in progress... with mostly clear skies and temps slowly dropping from our high of 64.4F (18.0C) which occurred around 2:30pm.  we've had no rainfall today, and the humidity averaged in the 50-55% range.

it looks like there were more rain and snow showers up along the dhauladars this afternoon, but none of that precipitation made it anywhere close to mcleod ganj, as far as i know.  check the comments on this morning's post (below) if you are interested in a detailed and comprehensive discussion concerning up-to-date conditions in the mountains and passes!!

the area of disturbed weather in the upper atmosphere that has been hanging around here for the past few days has now moved out, and will gradually be replaced by a ridge of high pressure that is looking unusually strong for this time of year.  that means we can expect dry and sunny weather as we head into the new week, with temperatures rising well above normal by the middle of the week.  if the forecast pans out, we'll be dealing with temps much more characteristic of early october instead of early november.

SATURDAY NIGHT: mostly clear and cool.
low: 11C (52F)

SUNDAY: sunshine... with just a few PM mountain clouds.
high: 19C (66F)

MONDAY: mostly sunny and mild.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

TUESDAY: lots of sunshine... unseasonably mild.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

WEDNESDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and warm for november.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (70F)

THURSDAY: a mix of sun and clouds, remaining quite warm.
morning low: 14C (58F)
daytime high: 21C (70F)

shower risk... (am.5.nov.11)>

the sun is shining through a few mid-level clouds early this morning, with a humidity reading of 52%.  the overnight low temp was 51.8F (11.0C), which is the coolest i have recorded at my location this season.  rainfall during the past 24 hours was 0.04" (1mm), which occurred mainly between 3-4pm yesterday.

today we will still have to contend with a bit of an unsettled atmosphere, as a chunk of energy continues to slide through aloft.  that means that there will be a slight to moderate chance of a period of showers and/or thundershowers this afternoon.  there will still be a good bit of sun... just keep in mind the potential for (what should be) a brief round of wet weather.  it looks like there is a fresh dusting of snow on the mountains... and there could be more of that on the way today.  be prepared if you're heading up above triund.

things will quickly settle down tonight, tomorrow, and into the middle of the coming week.  sunshine, generally low humidity levels, and a rather dramatic warming trend are all in the forecast during the next several days...

SATURDAY: a mix of sun and clouds.  risk of a passing shower or thundershower this afternoon.
high: 18C (64F)

SATURDAY NIGHT: slight chance of an evening shower, then becoming clear.
low: 12C (53F)

SUNDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and nice.
high: 19C (66F)

MONDAY: mostly sunny and unseasonably mild.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

TUESDAY: plenty of sunshine... warm for october.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

WEDNESDAY: sun and a few clouds.  pleasant temps.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

unsettled for now... (pm.4.nov.11)>

we have a partly cloudy sky just after sunset this evening, after a period of mid-afternoon thundershowers delivered 0.04" (1mm) of rain at the upper part of town.  there were even a few minutes of very small hail at my place.  the high temp reached 64.9F (18.3C) shortly after noon... while humidity fluctuated wildly, from 47-65%.

the expected scenario has played out nicely today... although it would have been a bonus to pick up more rainfall during this very dry season of the year.  we'll still have a chance of another round or two of showers during the coming 24 hours or so as this latest upper-level disturbance moves through, but it is unlikely that we'll get anything very significant.  there could still be some accumulating snows higher up the mountain by saturday evening... so take care and be prepared if you're heading up to any of the passes.

by sunday, we'll be launching into a dry pattern again, which should feature lots of sunshine, along with temperatures above normal for the second week of november.  in fact, next week may turn out to be much more characteristic of early-mid october!  stay tuned as we watch to see if it's for real...

FRIDAY NIGHT: partly cloudy skies, with a chance of a couple of showers, and perhaps a thundershower in the area.
low: 12C (53F)

SATURDAY: a mix of clouds and sun, with a period of showers and/or thundershowers possible.
high: 18C (64F)

SUNDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and nice.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

MONDAY: mostly sunny and unseasonably mild.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

TUESDAY: sunshine and a few clouds.  pleasant.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

WEDNESDAY: sunny to partly cloudy... still mild for november.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

sun, possible showers... (am.4.nov.11)>

it's another in a seemingly endless streak of beautiful mornings.  we have clear skies at sunrise, with the humidity at 57%.  the current temp (and overnight low) is 54.5F (12.5C).

the weekend is nearly upon us... and so is an upper-level disturbance.  this weak system will be moving through the area between now and saturday evening, and may touch off some widely scattered shower and thundershower activity.  any rainfall is expected to be on the light side, but just keep in mind the potential for a round of showers if you plan to be out and about.  there could be some minor snowfall accumulations above 3000m (11,000ft) during the next 36 hours or so.  otherwise, there will still be periods of sunshine, both today and tomorrow, in the midst of some clouds and that chance of rain.

things will quickly clear out again on sunday, with sunshine, low humidity and a rather dramatic warming trend expected for the first part of the new week.  computer models are forecasting temperatures to be well above normal for this time of the year...

FRIDAY: sunshine giving way to increasing clouds.  a shower or thundershower possible, especially during the PM.
high: 18C (64F)

FRIDAY NIGHT: chance of a couple of showers in the area, otherwise partly cloudy skies.
low: 12C (54F)

SATURDAY: a mix of clouds and some sunshine, with a chance of a round of showers or thundershowers.
high: 17C (63F)

SUNDAY: sunny to partly cloudy.  warming up a bit.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

MONDAY: mostly sunny and unseasonably mild.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

TUESDAY: mostly sunny and pleasant.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

on the lookout... (pm.3.nov.11)>

very close to perfection this evening... other than a few clouds clinging to the mountains, the sky is mostly clear just after sunset.  the high temp today was a rather mild 65.5F (18.6C), while humidity averaged in the 50-55% range for most of the day.

there was a healthy build-up of big cumulus clouds over the mountains during the early to mid- afternoon hours, and satellite pics indicate that there were likely a few rain and snow showers at the higher elevations... perhaps some thunder as well.  down here where we live, the sunshine held on... and it turned out to be a very nice day.

we're still watching an approaching upper-level disturbance which, weak though it is, will increase our chance of some widely scattered shower action during the coming 48 hours or so.  i think there is a fairly good chance that we could get a period of showers, perhaps with some thunder, here in mcleod either friday or saturday... so keep that in mind and factor it into your outdoor plans.  otherwise, the vast majority of our hours will remain quiet.

by sunday, this system will clear out, and that will take away our rain chances... and usher in a period of warmer-than-average temperatures for the first part of the coming week.

THURSDAY NIGHT: mostly clear skies overnight... with just a slight chance of a thundershower after midnight.
low: 12C (54F)

FRIDAY: a mix of sunshine and clouds, with a shower or thundershower possible... mainly in the PM.
high: 18C (64F)

SATURDAY: partly cloudy with a chance of a passing shower or thundershower.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 17C (63F)

SUNDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and nice.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

MONDAY: mostly sunny and unseasonably mild.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

TUESDAY: sunshine and a few clouds.  still warm for november.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

some variability... (am.3.nov.11)>

we have full sunshine early this morning with a humidity reading of 54%... which is a bit lower than it has been recently.  i've recorded an overnight low temp of 54.3F (12.4C), along with a trace of rainfall during the past 24 hours.

a couple of weak upper-level disturbances are set to trek across the area during the coming 72 hours, but it looks like the full effects will remain well to our north.  be aware and prepared for the chance of a shower or two between this afternoon and saturday evening, but i don't expect anything long-lasting or particularly significant at this point.  rainfall, all told, should be less than a quarter of an inch (6mm).  but at least it's something to keep an eye on, and this time of year, we'll take any rain we can get!

by sunday, rain chances should all but disappear again... with dry and sunny weather expected for the beginning of next week, along with a bit of a warm-up.  in fact, there are indications that temperature could jump well above normal for a few days next week.

THURSDAY: morning sunshine... then some clouds this afternoon with a risk of a passing shower.
high: 18C (65F)

THURSDAY NIGHT: possibly a shower around during the evening... then clear to partly cloudy overnight.
low: 12C (54F)

FRIDAY: partly to mostly cloudy at times, with a random shower or two possible.
high: 18C (64F)

SATURDAY: a mix of clouds and sun, with a good chance of a shower or two in the area.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

SUNDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and a bit milder.
morning low: 11C (52F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

MONDAY: mostly sunny and nice.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

random raindrops... (pm.2.nov.11)>

a beautiful sunset has just concluded... as skies have rapidly cleared out this evening.  there were a few sprinkles and very light showers around town this afternoon, in the midst of the hide-and-seek sunshine, but at least at my place in the upper part of town, there wasn't enough rainfall to measure.  humidity has been in the 60-65% range for much of the day, and i recorded a high temp of 64.6F (18.1C).

it was a bit ironic that we actually had less afternoon cloudiness today than there's been recently, but ended up with those few raindrops.  some random sprinkles or light showers will remain in the forecast through saturday, as a couple of weak upper-level disturbances pass by.  rainfall amounts should be well below 1/4" (6mm) in total, but some higher amounts are possible further up in the mountains, especially on friday into saturday.  be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions up there... although i don't expect the kind of snowfall that occurred up on the passes just 10 days ago.

precipitation chances should disappear again, with a bit of a warm-up expected as we move into the early part of next week...

WEDNESDAY NIGHT:  clear to partly cloudy skies.
low: 12C (53F)

THURSDAY: a mix of sunshine and clouds, with a risk of a brief shower or two.
high: 18C (64F)

FRIDAY: partly to mostly cloudy with a couple of showers possible.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 17C (63F)

SATURDAY: still a chance of a few showers in the area, otherwise partly cloudy.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

SUNDAY: sunny to partly cloudy and pleasantly cool.
morning low: 11C (52F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

MONDAY: mostly sunny and mild for november.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

eastern exposure... (am.2.nov.11)>

another glorious morning in progress... with unlimited sunshine to start the day.  humidity is still rather high, at 65%, and i've recorded an overnight low of 52.9F (11.6C).

if you have windows facing the east, you're probably rather pleased with the weather recently, since the vast majority of warm sunshine has been during the morning hours.  those with only western exposure are getting ripped off... for the time being.  this pattern of sunshine in the morning and generally cloudy conditions in the afternoon is expected to continue right into the weekend... along with a gradually increasing chance of a stray rain shower or two.  right now, i'd say friday and saturday look to be the best opportunities for catching one, but they should be rather brief and light, nonetheless.

temperatures continue to incrementally cool... especially at night... but it looks like we may have a bit of a rebound in temps, along with a turn to more consistently sunny skies early next week.  that's a long way off, but something to watch.

WEDNESDAY: morning sunshine, with skies becoming partly to mostly cloudy at times by noon, into the early evening.  some light showers around!
high: 18C (64F)

WEDNESDAY NIGHT: clear to partly cloudy.
low: 12C (53F)

THURSDAY: a mix of sun and clouds, with a slight chance of a brief afternoon shower.
high: 18C (64F)

FRIDAY: partly to mostly cloudy at times, with a shower or two in the area.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 17C (63F)

SATURDAY: partly cloudy and cool, with a chance of a shower.
morning low: 11C (52F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

SUNDAY: sunny to partly cloudy skies.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

our moody sky... (pm.1.nov.11)>

we have hazy and partly cloudy skies once again this evening at sunset.  humidity has remained high for this time of year... around 65% all day.  i recorded  a high temp of 63.5F (17.5C) which occurred around 1:00pm.

the last several days have seen very little variation on our recent theme of sunny mornings and partly to mostly cloudy afternoons.  the pattern in all levels of the atmosphere remains unchanged... with a westerly flow aloft carrying a few minor ripples across the area.  so far, there has been nothing strong enough to capitalize on this moderate low-level moisture sitting here along the dhauladars... so showers have been almost non-existent, except at some of the higher elevations where there could have been some very light precipitation during the PM hours.  having said that, a couple of the computer models are calling for a reduction in humidity levels in the next day or two... so we'll see if that pans out.

don't be too shocked if we do eventually get some sprinkles or light showers at some point this week, otherwise, it looks like status quo... with the most pleasant and nice autumn weather in line during the morning hours.  temps will be generally steady through week.

by the way, our october stats are posted on the tab above if you're interested in checking them out...

TUESDAY NIGHT: becoming mostly clear.
low: 12C (54F)

WEDNESDAY: mostly sunny in the morning, with partly to mostly cloudy skies during the afternoon hours.
high: 18C (65F)

THURSDAY: a mix of sunshine and clouds.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

FRIDAY: partly cloudy with a risk of a shower or two in the area.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

SATURDAY: partly cloudy with a slight chance of a passing shower.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

SUNDAY: sunshine and a few clouds.  rather pleasant.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

new month, same wx... (am.1.nov.11)>

the sun is shining through hazy skies early this morning, with the humidity at 67%.  i recorded an overnight low temp of 54.0F (12.2C).

november has arrived in our hemisphere, but so far, it is looking no different from the month just ended.  we remain in a very quiet and rather uneventful weather pattern, with no major changes anticipated during the coming several days at least.

as i've been mentioning, the only thing happening is the occasional passage of a weak disturbance in the upper atmosphere.  that will keep us from enjoying totally cloud-free skies, and also give us at least a slight chance of a random sprinkle or light shower during the afternoons.  our mornings should remain very very nice, however.

temperatures have steadied out the last couple of days, and there are indications it may actually warm up a couple of degrees on a few afternoons this week, depending on the amount of sunshine that can hang on.

TUESDAY: nice morning sunshine... giving way to partly to mostly cloudy skies around noon.
high: 18C (65F)

TUESDAY NIGHT: some evening clouds, then becoming mostly clear.
low: 12C (54F)

WEDNESDAY: a mix of sunshine and mainly afternoon clouds.
high: 18C (65F)

THURSDAY: partly cloudy.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

FRIDAY: partly cloudy with a risk of one or two showers, mainly in the afternoon.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

SATURDAY: slight chance of a shower, otherwise partly cloudy.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

SUNDAY: partly to mostly sunny.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

goodbye october... (pm.31.oct.11)>

there are still a few clouds lingering this evening, otherwise we have a hazy sky just after sunset.  humidity today was again on the high side, between 60-70% for most of the day, while the high temp reached 64.4F (18.0C) during the early afternoon.

the last four days or so have been quite similar... with pretty much unlimited sunshine until around 11:00am, followed by varying degrees of cloudiness during the mid-day into the early evening hours.  so far, there has been no rainfall in the area, but we could still squeeze out a random few sprinkles or light showers during the afternoon sometime this week.  the flow aloft is west-to-east, so occasional weak embedded disturbances and a moderate amount of low-level moisture will continue to prevent us from enjoying totally sunny, cloud-free skies.

right now, our available computer model guidance doesn't show any dramatic turn of events in our near future... so november should kick off very similarly to the way october is ending.  we are right in the midst of the driest time of the year in the dharamsala area, so this quiet weather is right on track...

MONDAY NIGHT: generally clear skies.
low: 12C (53F)

TUESDAY: mostly sunny in the morning, but turning mostly cloudy in the afternoon.
high: 18C (64F)

WEDNESDAY: sunny to partly cloudy skes.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

THURSDAY: a mix of sunshine and some clouds.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

FRIDAY: partly to mostly cloudy with a random shower or two possible.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 17C (63F)

SATURDAY: partly cloudy with a slight chance of a shower or two in the area.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

afternoon clouds... (am.31.oct.11)>

the sky is totally clear at sunrise... as it has been during the vast majority of mornings during the past several weeks.  i've recorded an overnight low of 53.2F (11.8C), which is actually the coolest of the month at my location.  humidity is rather high this morning, at 71%.

the higher humidity here at the surface, combined with a few very weak disturbances aloft is what has fed into the cloud development over the mountains during the afternoons recently.  i see no reason why today should be an exception, so the morning sunshine will likely yield to clouds again by noon or shortly thereafter.  rain chances remain extremely slim, but still don't be surprised if there are a few sprinkles or a brief light shower one or two afternoons during the coming week.

the general weather pattern will remain the same as we say hello to november... a rather strong west-to-east flow aloft, with no surface features to speak of.  our gradual turn to cooler temps, which is of course normal this time of year, will continue on...

MONDAY: lots of morning sun, but becoming partly to mostly cloudy during the afternoon.  a brief, light shower??
high: 17C (63F)

MONDAY NIGHT: clearing skies at sunset.  fair overnight.
low: 12C (53F)

TUESDAY: sunshine in the AM, some clouds PM.
high: 17C (63F)

WEDNESDAY: a mix of sun and clouds with just a slight chance of a PM shower.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 17C (63F)

THURSDAY: partly cloudy and seasonably cool.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

FRIDAY: partly to mostly cloudy with a little better chance of some showers in the area.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 17C (62F)

sun-cloud split... (pm.30.oct.11)>

the sunset was barely visible just a few minutes ago, due to hazy, partly cloudy skies.  our beautiful morning sunshine was rapidly replaced by cloudiness just after 1pm, which remained for the majority of the afternoon hours.  i recorded a cool high temp of just 62.8F (17.1C), while the humidity averaged around 65% for much of the day.

satellite pics this afternoon confirmed that cloud development was confined to the south-facing slopes of the himalayan front ranges, with the heaviest build-up along the dhauladars, as usual.  there may have also been some rain and snow showers at the highest elevations.

as threatening as the sky looked this afternoon, we're not really in a pattern that would favor good chances of rain here at our elevation.  there will be some disorganized disturbances floating through the area during the next several days, which will keep periods of clouds alternating with mainly morning sunshine, but the way it looks now, stormy weather and significant rainfall is not expected.  still... don't be surprised if we get a period of light showers at some point this week, and always be prepared if you're heading higher into the mountains.

temperatures should remain near or even a bit below normal as we make the transition from october to november...

SUNDAY NIGHT: hazy, but only a few clouds.
low: 12C (53F)

MONDAY: mostly sunny in the morning, but partly to mostly cloudy during the afternoon.  a brief shower possible PM.
high: 17C (63F)

TUESDAY: a mix of clouds and sun, with a slight chance of a shower.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

WEDNESDAY: partly cloudy skies.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

THURSDAY: partly cloudy with a slight chance of a shower.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

FRIDAY: a little better chance of some light rain showers, otherwise partly cloudy.
morning low: 12C (53F)
daytime high: 17C (63F)

same scenario... (am.30.oct.11)>

saturday's high temp: 64.9F (18.3C)
this morning's low temp: 54.1F (12.3C)
current outdoor humidity: 65%

we have clear skies at sunrise, with very little cloudiness showing up on satellite pics at this stage of the morning. that will likely change as we head into the mid-day hours, though.

our overall weather pattern remains rather feature-less, and that should keep us in this pattern of sunshine alternating with some periods of mid-day and afternoon clouds.  a few minor disturbances are forecast by computer models to drift through here on the westerly flow aloft during the coming several days, but right now, nothing very threatening is on the horizon.  stay tuned, in case that changes.

temperatures have also been steady for the past few days, with no major changes expected, either up or down, during the coming week or so.

SUNDAY: sunshine early, with some clouds developing by noon.
high: 18C (65F)

SUNDAY NIGHT: clear to partly cloudy skies.
low: 12C (54F)

MONDAY: partly sunny.  only a slight chance of a PM shower.
high: 18C (65F)

TUESDAY: a mix of sun and clouds, with one or two brief, light showers possible.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

WEDNESDAY: partly sunny skies.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

THURSDAY: partly sunny with a risk of a passing shower.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

chilling out... (pm.28.oct.11)>

other than a few wisps of high, thin cirrus clouds and a bit of haze, we have clear skies at sunset this evening.  the humidity was a bit higher today than it has been all week... averaging near 55%.  i recorded a high temp of 64.0F (17.8C), which was actually a bit cooler than expected.

we had full sunshine until about 11am, then clouds began to develop over the mountains, and i was a bit surprised by the partial overcast between about 1 and 2pm.  but by mid-afternoon, the clouds dissipated once again... just as quickly as they developed.  upper air charts indicate one of those minor "wiggles" in the upper air pattern, which could have been responsible for the period of cloudiness.

it's still hard to pinpoint any significant changes on the way during the next couple of days at least.  we'll continue to enjoy sunshine during the vast majority of the daylight hours, with temperatures remaining very close to normal for this time of year.

a disorganized system is being advertised by computer models for the first part of next week, but at this point, chances of significant rainfall appear to be slim.  as always, be prepared if you are venturing into the mountains, regardless...

FRIDAY NIGHT: mostly clear skies.  cool.
low: 12C (54F)

SATURDAY: sunshine, with a few clouds, mainly in the afternoon.
high: 19C (66F)

SUNDAY: partly to mostly sunny and seasonably cool.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

MONDAY: partly cloudy with a slight chance of a shower.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

TUESDAY: a mix of clouds and sun with a risk of a shower in the area.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 18C (65F)

WEDNESDAY: both clouds and sun, with a period of rain showers possible.
morning low: 12C (54F)
daytime high: 18C (64F)

delicious... (am.28.oct.11)>

waking up to another mostly clear sky on this friday morning, with the humidity reading at 58%.  the overnight low temp here on tushita road  has been 54.7F (12.6C)... one of the coolest i've logged this season.

barring any surprises, we should remain locked in this gorgeous autumn weather pattern for a few more days... with a quiet and stable atmosphere in place from the surface all the way into the upper atmosphere.  clouds, even over the mountains, have been rather scarce the past couple of days, and i'm still wondering if we might get a day of 100% wall-to-wall sunshine in the near future.

despite all the sun, temperatures have actually cooled down another notch, but should hold fairly steady as we go through the weekend.  still watching the potential for a more active weather pattern to begin developing early next week, but it's too early yet to say whether we'll get any decent chance of rain out of the deal.  stay tuned...

FRIDAY: lots of sunshine.  seasonably cool temps.
high: 19C (67F)

FRIDAY NIGHT: mostly clear.
low: 13C (55F)

SATURDAY: mostly sunny.
high: 19C (67F)

SUNDAY: a mix of sunshine and high clouds.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

MONDAY: partly cloudy, with a risk of a passing shower.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

TUESDAY: partly cloudy skies.  a shower or two possible in the area.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

cooler air seeping in... (pm.27.oct.11)>

today was arguably the sunniest day in several months... with only a very feeble collection of clouds gathering over the mountains for a while between noon and about 4:00pm.  despite the huge percentage of sunshine, it was a rather cool day, with the high temp only reaching 65.5F (18.6C).

general high pressure from the surface into the mid-levels of the atmosphere, a westerly flow aloft, and the absence of any significant moisture is giving us a very quiet and stable weather situation, which should continue into the weekend.  even the highest mountains have been pretty much free of rain/snow showers the last couple of days... providing some beautiful conditions for trekkers and climbers.

temperatures have been cooling gradually... as the himalayan airmass adapts to the longer nights, and seeps downslope.  it's still warm in the sun, but we've reached the stage where the chill is pretty much here to stay in the shade, and during the overnight hours.

there may be some changes coming early next week, so stay tuned as we watch for a returning chance of some rain shower action...

THURSDAY NIGHT: clear and cool.
low: 12C (54F)

FRIDAY: lots of sunshine.  comfortably cool.
high: 19C (67F)

SATURDAY: sun and a few clouds.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

SUNDAY: partly to mostly sunny and mild.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

MONDAY: partly cloudy, with a slight chance of a shower in the area.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

TUESDAY: a mix of clouds and sun with a shower or two possible.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 19C (66F)

sunshine season... (am.27.oct.11)>

aaahhhh... the sound of silence, on this morning after diwali celebrations.  the sky is 100% clear, as we await the sunrise, with a humidity reading of 44%.  my overnight low (and current temp) is 55.2F (12.9C).

our weather pattern is about as quiet, dull, and inactive as it ever gets in this part of the world.  despite a rather strong westerly flow aloft, the atmosphere is stable and moisture is very limited.  this combination is going to keep us in the sunshine for a few more days, with very little chance of even a stray shower... except perhaps far up the mountains.  by late sunday, computer models are hinting at a bit of instability developing, which will gradually increase our shower chances as we head into the new week.

it looks like temperatures will remain fairly steady right through the forecast period, chilly overnight, but pleasantly mild in the daytime sun.

THURSDAY: sunny skies... with only a few clouds over the mountains in the afternoon.
high: 20C (68F)

THURSDAY NIGHT: clear and cool.
low: 13C (55F)

FRIDAY: wall-to-wall sunshine!
high: 21C (69F)

SATURDAY: mostly sunny and nice.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

SUNDAY: a mix of sunshine and a few clouds.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

MONDAY: partly cloudy with a risk of a shower passing through.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

holiday finery... (pm.26.oct.11)>

a totally clear sky is allowing great views of both the sunset and the mountains this evening.  sunshine has been the dominant feature all day, with humidity between 40-50%.  i recorded a rather cool high temp of just 66.7F (19.3C).

on average, temperatures have cooled down about 4F/2C from where they were a week ago, as the daylight hours shorten, and mountain air spills down the slopes.  actually, we're now squarely in the range of "normal" for the last week of october.

DIWALI fireworks are in no danger of being spoiled this evening, thanks to fair skies and nearly calm winds.  this generally clear and quiet weather pattern is expected to continue right into the weekend... and it still looks like we stand a chance of getting a 100% cloud-free day, which is a rarity here at the foot of the dhauladars.

the next weather system to watch will be approaching by late sunday, increasing clouds a bit, and bringing in a little better chance of a shower.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT: clear and cool.
low: 13C (55F)

THURSDAY: mostly sunny skies.
high: 20C (68F)

FRIDAY: more sunshine...
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

SATURDAY: sunny to partly cloudy.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

SUNDAY: increasing clouds.  slight chance of a late day shower.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

MONDAY: a mix of clouds and sun with a brief shower or two possible.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 19C (67F)

diwali sunshine... (am.26.oct.11)>

a calm, quiet and 100% clear morning... humidity stands at 41%, and i've recorded an overnight low of 55.4F (13.0C) here on tushita road just below the mountaineering center.

HAPPY DIWALI... looks like it will be a nice one.  we are entering what is normally the driest and most quiet time of the year, weatherwise, here in the dharamsala area.  moisture in all levels of the atmosphere is low, and winds in the mid-levels and aloft are generally from the west and northwest.  while there are always a few wiggles and jiggles in the jetstream flow that could set off an isolated mountain shower, there are no major disturbances in sight, and that should allow fair weather to dominate for several days.

sun lovers should be satisfied, and so should those who are not looking forward to the eventual advance of colder air... as temps should be steady in this rather mild range right into the weekend at least.

WEDNESDAY: sunny... with just a few clouds over the mountains by mid-day.
high: 21C (69F)

WEDNESDAY NIGHT: clear skies.
low: 13C (56F)

THURSDAY: lots of sunshine.  pleasant temps.
high: 21C (69F)

FRIDAY: sunny and mild.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (70F)

SATURDAY: a mix of sunshine and a few clouds.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

SUNDAY: partly cloudy... temps remaining mild.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

uneventful for awhile... (pm.25.oct.11)>

we have mostly clear skies at sunset this evening.  it's been a dry day, with a high temp of 67.3F (19.6F), and humidity remaining very close to 40%.

the term "partly cloudy" was invented for days such as this... there has been plenty of sunshine to go around, but quite a few patches of clouds difting through as well.  there were even one or two isolated showers up towards lahaul and spiti during the maximum heating period of the early to mid-afternoon hours.  there has been a weak upper-level disturbance drifting through during the past 12 hours or so, and that's the only thing that kept us from wall-to-wall sunshine.

the most consistently dry and calm airmass in many months is settling in now, thanks to a moderate northwesterly flow throughout the middle and upper atmosphere.  this pattern will present us with lots of sunshine, low humidity, and seasonably cool to mild temperatures through the end of the week.  classic october... toasty in the direct mid-day sun, but chilly at night.  layers required!

TUESDAY NIGHT: mostly clear skies.
low: 13C (55F)

WEDNESDAY: sunny skies, with just a few afternoon clouds over the mountains.
high: 21C (69F)

THURSDAY: lots of sunshine.  pleasant temps.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

FRIDAY: sunny and nice.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

SATURDAY: a mix of sunshine and a few clouds.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

SUNDAY: partly cloudy.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

just how we like it... (am.25.oct.11)>

sunshine and a few patchy clouds this morning... with a humidity reading of just 36%.  i recorded an overnight low temp of 55.9F (13.3C).

there is one more minor circulation and little pocket of energy in the upper atmosphere which will drift across northern india today.  it should go virtually unnoticed... but may be able to trigger one or two isolated showers over the mountains this afternoon.

otherwise... a fair and quiet weather pattern will prevail through the week, and into the weekend even.  that means plenty of sun by day, and stars by night, along with pleasant autumn temperatures and low humidity.  according to my records, 24 april was the last day of 100% sunshine, without even any PM cumulus clouds over the mountains... maybe we have a shot at such a day later this week...?

TUESDAY: sun and a few clouds.  (perhaps an isolated PM thundershower over the mountains)
high: 21C (69F)

TUESDAY NIGHT: clear and seasonably cool.
low: 13C (56F)

WEDNESDAY: mostly sunny.  pleasantly mild.
high: 21C (69F)

THURSDAY: lots of sunshine.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

FRIDAY: sunny skies.  nice.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (70F)

SATURDAY: sunny to partly cloudy.
morning low: 14C (58F)
daytime high: 21C (70F)

rapid rebound... (pm.24.oct.11)>

a picture perfect evening in progress, after a beautiful day.  other than a moderate build-up of clouds over the dhauladars from late morning to late afternoon, we had sunny skies.  the high temp reached exactly 68F (20C), while humidity hovered between 40-50% for most of the day.

in the wake of our weekend storm system, things have been nice and calm and quiet today.  according to the satellite perspective, there were only one or two isolated showers (most likely snow) over some of the higher himalayan peaks this afternoon, otherwise it appears that another phase of drier weather has settled in for a while.  trekkers may be interested in checking out the comments section of this morning's post (below) for some up-to-date information from a regular weathergeek reader concerning conditions on the passes.

sunshine will dominate for the remainder of the week... but please continue to be aware that spotty shower development could occur in the mountains, despite the fair weather pattern.  temperatures have now settled to  near normal, especially during the nights and early mornings, but the sun will keep things quite pleasant during the daytime.

MONDAY NIGHT: clear and cool.
low: 13C (55F)

TUESDAY: morning sunshine, with a few mountain clouds during the afternoon.
high: 20C (68F)

WEDNESDAY: mostly sunny with near normal temps.
morning low: 13C (55F)
daytime high: 20C (68F)

THURSDAY: lots of sunshine.  nice.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

FRIDAY: mostly sunny.
morning low: 13C (56F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)

SATURDAY: sunny to partly cloudy.
morning low: 14C (57F)
daytime high: 21C (69F)