Himachal Pradesh has been grappling with an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures breaking previous records across the state even as capital Shimla received slight relief from the heatwave with some rain on Thursday (May 30, 2024).
On Wednesday, the temperature in Hamirpur’s Neri soared to 46.3 degrees Celsius, while Una recorded 46 degrees Celsius. This surpasses Una’s previous high of 45.2 degrees Celsius, recorded on May 23, 2013, marking the highest temperature recorded in the state’s history. Unfortunately, there are no historical temperature records for Neri, but Wednesday’s temperature marks the hottest day of the season there.
However, the residents of Shimla experienced a brief respite as rain showers graced the city at 12 noon on Thursday. The rain provided much-needed relief from the scorching heat. According to the Meteorological Department, light rain is expected to continue over the next six days in the high and medium-altitude areas of the state. However, the plains are unlikely to see any rainfall during this period.
Surendra Pal, Director of the Meteorological Department, noted that while a western disturbance is becoming active, it is not expected to bring heavy rain. Only light rain is forecasted at a few locations, which may offer some relief from the heat in the high and medium-altitude areas.
Despite the forecast for rain, a yellow alert for heatwave conditions remains in effect for six districts today: Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Kangra, Sirmaur and Solan. These districts are expected to continue experiencing heatwave conditions, but relief is anticipated starting Friday.
Nine cities in the state have seen temperatures rise above 40 degrees Celsius, with several cities recording temperatures significantly above normal. Hamirpur’s temperature increase of 7.9 degrees Celsius above normal is the most severe, followed by Mandi at 7.7 degrees, Shimla at 5.9 degrees, Sundernagar at 5.5 degrees, Bhuntar at 5.9 degrees, Kalpa at 3.6 degrees, Una at 6.9 degrees, Dharamshala at 6.6 degrees, Solan at 5.7 degrees, Bilaspur at 7.6 degrees and Nahan at 5.4 degrees above normal.
As Himachal Pradesh endures this extreme heatwave, residents have been advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe and hydrated.
