SHIMLA: The hills of Himachal Pradesh have been experiencing an unprecedented heatwave, with seven districts sweltering under unusually high temperatures.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning for the next five days till May 23, advising residents to avoid exposure to the sun and exercise caution. Despite a forecast of light rain in some areas, the sun has been shining brightly since morning across most of the state.
The IMD says heatwave conditions are likely to persist in Bilaspur, Shimla, Kangra, Solan, Una, Mandi, Hamirpur and Sirmaur.
Neri in Hamirpur has recorded a record temperature of 44.1 degrees Celsius. Five cities have surpassed the 40-degree mark, with temperatures in 11 cities ranging between 35 to 40 degrees Celsius.
Notable temperatures include Una at 43.6 degrees, Bilaspur at 42.8 degrees, Barthi at 40.7 degrees and Dhaulakuan at 42.4 degrees.
As the sun continues to blaze, temperatures are expected to climb further.
The intense heat is severely affecting daily life, particularly in the plains, where people are struggling to cope. Farmers and workers are finding it difficult to venture outside, and drinking water sources are drying up, exacerbating the situation.
This water scarcity is also damaging cash crops, posing a significant threat to the agricultural sector.
The IMD had anticipated the activation of a western disturbance (WD) two days ago, which could have brought some relief. However, the disturbance is now weakening, diminishing hopes for rainfall. Despite a slight chance of rain in some areas today, the overall outlook remains bleak.
