IMD signals relief from intense heatwave, forecasts early monsoon onset
Shimla, May 21,
Amid severe heatwave conditions sweeping Himachal Pradesh and large parts of northwest India, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has brought some relief for people struggling with soaring temperatures. The weather department has forecast a fall of two to three degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures during the next two days, offering respite from the intense summer heat.
According to meteorologists, the present spell of extreme heat is unlikely to persist for a prolonged period as fresh western disturbances are expected to influence weather conditions over the western Himalayan region. Light drizzling and partly cloudy skies are likely from Thursday onwards, and this activity may continue intermittently for the next two to three days.
The IMD said that while rising humidity may temporarily increase discomfort in some areas, cloud cover and light rain are expected to reduce the intensity of the scorching heatwave currently affecting the plains and lower hills of the state. Temperatures in several parts of Himachal Pradesh have remained significantly above normal during the past few days, forcing people indoors during afternoon hours.
Also Read Una sizzles at 44°C, Shimla m- 30.5°C as Heatwave Grips HP
In another major development, the IMD has indicated that the southwest monsoon is advancing steadily over the Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal regions. As per the latest monsoon progression chart, the monsoon has already reached parts of the Andaman Sea and adjoining regions ahead of schedule.
Meteorological experts now expect the southwest monsoon to reach Himachal Pradesh and parts of northwest India between June 20 and June 24, nearly two to three days earlier than its normal onset over the region. Normally, the monsoon reaches Himachal Pradesh around June 23 to 25.
The expected early arrival of the monsoon is being viewed as a positive sign after the unusually harsh pre-monsoon heat conditions witnessed this month. Farmers, horticulturists and residents in drought-prone areas are also hoping that timely rainfall would improve soil moisture and provide relief from rising temperatures.
The weather department has advised people to continue taking precautions against heat exposure until temperatures begin to decline substantially.
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