Shimla, May 30
Himachal Pradesh is enduring an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures soaring record highs across the state. The Indian Meteorological Department reported that Neri in Hamirpur registered a scorching 46.3 degrees Celsius, marking it as the hottest location in the state.
Una, which previously held a record high temperature of 45.2 degrees Celsius on three separate occasions—May 23, 2013, June 21, 2005, and June 10, 2019—saw a new record of 46 degrees Celsius on May 29. This new high is approximately seven degrees above the normal temperature for this time of year.
Other areas in the state also experienced extreme heat. Bilaspur recorded a maximum temperature of 44.5 degrees Celsius, which is 7.6 degrees above normal, while Hamirpur reached 43.8 degrees Celsius, eight degrees above normal. Shimla, the capital city known for its cooler climate, saw temperatures rise to 31.7 degrees Celsius, nearing its record high of 32.6 degrees set on May 27, 2010.
In response to the heatwave, the state government has closed primary schools and Anganwadi centers in many areas and extended holidays for summer-closing schools. Additionally, schools have been instructed to hold examinations and classes for senior grades from 7 am to 11 am to avoid the peak heat.
The heatwave has also led to several tragic incidents, with three drowning deaths reported in the last three days, including a tourist from Gujarat who drowned in the Beas River in Kullu district.
Residents are facing severe water shortages, with drinking water supplies in Shimla town being delivered every three to four days. The Shimla Municipal Corporation has deployed water tankers to ensure the availability of water in public areas due to poor water discharge.
The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow alert, advising people to stay in shaded areas and consume plenty of clean water to avoid dehydration and heat-related illnesses. The public is also urged to avoid heat exposure, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, and protect their heads with cloths, hats, or umbrellas.
Farmers are advised to apply light and frequent irrigation to their crops to mitigate heat stress and use mulching to conserve soil moisture and reduce evaporation.
This heatwave poses a moderate health concern for the general public and a significant risk for vulnerable groups such as infants, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses.
Noteworthy that the IMD has predicted rain for May 30, and 31.
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