Shimla, June 13
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) in Shimla has issued a heatwave warning for the next 72 hours for several districts in Himachal Pradesh, including Sirmaur, Bilaspur, Chamba, Hamirpur, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Solan, and Una. There is a potential for severe heatwave conditions at one or two locations.
The heatwave has significantly impacted the region, with temperatures soaring above 44 degrees Celsius in the plains. Una recorded a maximum temperature of 42.1°C, which is 7.8°C above normal.
Neri in Bilaspur district experienced a blistering 44.6°C. In Bilaspur, the temperature reached 42.7°C, 4.8°C higher than usual, while Hamirpur saw 42.1°C, 5.2°C above normal. Kangra recorded 41.8°C, a departure from normal by 5.3°C, and Sundernagar hit 41.3°C, 6.8°C above the usual. Bhuntar’s maximum temperature was 38.5°C, 5.7°C higher than average, and Mandi recorded 41.1°C, 6.5°C above the norm. Nahan experienced 39.9°C, 6.4°C above normal.
Shimla, the capital town, has also been experiencing unusually high temperatures, with the maximum temperature remaining above 30.5°C for the last three days, reaching 30.6°C today.
The prolonged heatwave has exacerbated forest fire incidents, particularly in pine forests, causing significant damage. Official reports indicate around 1300 fire incidents, leading to substantial loss of life and property.
The lack of pre-monsoon rain is also threatening agricultural activities, particularly Kharif sowing and off-season vegetable cultivation. Despite the heat, the state continues to see a heavy influx of tourists. However, poor traffic arrangements have left many visitors sweltering inside their vehicles.
In Shimla, the increase in private cars and cabs, coupled with a decline in public bus services, has resulted in daily traffic chaos. The “One Minute Halt” scheme by Shimla police has faced criticism from the public for creating bottlenecks and being ineffective.
The IMD urges residents and visitors to take necessary precautions and stay hydrated as the region braces for continued extreme heat.
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