Shimla,May 18
The Indian Meteorological department reported a significant heatwave across Himachal Pradesh, with temperatures reaching unprecedented highs. Neri in Sirmour district recorded a blistering 44 degrees Celsius, marking the highest temperature ever recorded in the region. Una followed closely with a temperature of 43.6 degrees, making it one of the hottest places this summer.
In the state capital, Shimla, the mercury rose to 30 degrees Celsius, which is five degrees above the seasonal average. This temperature increase was mirrored across various towns and districts. Bilaspur experienced 42.8 degrees, Dhaulakuna in Sirmour reached 42.4 degrees, and Bertin in Bilaspur saw 41 degrees. Mandi, Sundernagar, and Kangra each recorded temperatures of 39.8 degrees, while Chamba and Dharmshala experienced 39.3 and 36 degrees, respectively. Hamirpur and Nahan in Sirmour both recorded 37 degrees.
Tourist destinations were not spared from the heat, with Manali recording 28.6 degrees, Solan 36.5 degrees, Kasauli 34 degrees, Narkanda 24 degrees, and Kufri 24.7 degrees. Bhuntar and Jubberhati airport reported temperatures of 36.8 and 33.5 degrees, respectively. Despite the heat, popular tourist spots like Manali, Dalhousie, Kufri, Chail, Mashobra, and Kasauli saw a heavy influx of visitors, resulting in traffic congestion in Shimla and other areas.
The heatwave conditions were noted in Shimla, Sundernagar, Bhuntar, Dharmshala, Una, Solan, Mandi, Bilaspur, and Kangra. In light of these conditions, the Indian Meteorological Department issued a warning to residents, particularly in the foothills, to take precautions against the intense ultraviolet rays and heat.
The department also forecasted light precipitation in several regions, including Chamba, Kangra, Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti, with the possibility of thunderstorms and lightning in isolated areas, offering some respite from the extreme heat.
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