The Western Himalayan region is facing drought-like conditions, with almost no rain or snowfall since one spell on October 6.

Usual Western Disturbances have been missing, and no major system is expected till the end of December, keeping Himachal and Uttarakhand dry.

Slopes that should be white are brown, glaciers are melting without fresh snow, and river flows are dipping.

Apple orchards and other winter crops are suffering due to poor chill. Ski resorts and hill stations are reporting weak tourist numbers, hurting local incomes.

Experts warn that if this pattern continues, further water stress in the plains may increase in the coming months.