Himachal Pradesh Grapples with Intense Heatwave as Temperatures Soar Above Normal
Shimla: The picturesque state of Himachal Pradesh is currently experiencing an unprecedented spell of hot weather, with meteorological data revealing alarming temperature spikes across the region. On a recent Friday, nine out of the 36 weather stations in the state recorded maximum temperatures soaring above 30°C, marking a significant deviation from seasonal norms. Both minimum and maximum temperatures have remained elevated, creating conditions far warmer than usual for this time of year.
Record-Breaking Temperatures Across Districts
According to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, Una district recorded the highest maximum temperature of 34°C, closely followed by Neri in Hamirpur at 33.6°C. The heatwave has impacted various locations, with temperatures ranging from 1°C to a staggering 14°C above the average. Key readings include:
- Mandi: 33°C, which is 7.4°C above normal
- Kangra: 32°C, exceeding the norm by 10.1°C
- Sundernagar: 32.8°C, 9.8°C above average
- Bhuntar: 31.8°C, a rise of 10.9°C
- Solan: 30.2°C, 8.1°C higher than usual
- Dharamshala: 30°C, up by 9.4°C
High-Altitude Areas Also Affected
Even typically cooler high-altitude regions have not been spared. Kalpa witnessed a maximum temperature of 23.5°C, which is 14.3°C above normal, while Keylong recorded a day temperature of 14.2°C, 12.2°C higher than average. Other notable readings include Chamba at 29.9°C (4.5°C above normal), Shimla at 25.3°C (10.1°C above normal), and Manali at 24.6°C (10.2°C above normal).
Minimum Temperatures on the Rise
The heatwave has also impacted night-time temperatures. For the first time since winter, the lowest minimum temperature crossed the 0°C mark, with Tabo in Lahaul Spiti recording 2.3°C. Shimla's low was 15.4°C, 9.3°C above normal, and Manali registered a minimum of 8.8°C, 7°C higher than usual.
Weather Forecast and Warnings
The meteorological department has issued predictions for the coming days, indicating the possibility of light snow and rain in the high hills. However, a heatwave is expected to persist in the mid and low hills of Kullu, Mandi, and Solan districts. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions against the extreme heat, which poses health risks and could affect daily activities.
This unusual weather pattern underscores the broader climatic changes affecting the region, with experts monitoring the situation closely for any further developments.
