Premonsoon showers continue across HP, heatwave likely to end
Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source Internet
Shimla, June 12
Ahead of the onset of the Southwest Monsoon, widespread premonsoon showers lashed several parts of Himachal Pradesh, bringing much-needed relief from the prevailing heatwave conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that heatwave conditions would remain confined to Friday and pleasant weather is likely to prevail across most parts of the state during the next two to three days.
Kasauli in Solan district recorded the highest rainfall in the state at 105 mm, followed by Dharampur 86.6 mm, Dhaulakuan 43.5 mm, Palampur 40 mm, Solan 34.6 mm, Jot 30 mm, Sarahan 30 mm and Nahan 26.7 mm.
The premonsoon showers led to a sharp fall in night temperatures by two to six degrees Celsius at many places and temperatures are likely to remain two to seven degrees below normal or near normal during the next 24 hours.
However, owing to humid conditions, maximum temperatures in the state may remain two to three degrees above normal.
In the mid and higher hills, daytime temperatures are expected to decline further and remain close to normal levels.
Strong winds were reported from several areas, with Neri in Hamirpur district recording gusty winds of 81 kmph. Despite the changing weather, Una remained the hottest place in the state on Thursday with a maximum temperature of 44 degrees Celsius, which was 5.6 degrees above normal.
Thunderstorms and lightning struck Shimla, Kufri and adjoining areas on Thursday night and again on Friday afternoon. Similar weather activity was reported from Jot, Bhuntar and Sundernagar.
According to IMD inputs and social media reports, hailstorms also occurred in Kumarsain in Shimla district and Malana in Kullu district.
Meanwhile, tourist destinations across the state are witnessing a sharp influx of visitors seeking relief from the scorching heat in the plains.
Shimla, Manali and Dharamshala have been experiencing heavy traffic congestion, posing a challenge for local authorities. The ongoing International Summer Festival in Shimla has further added to the rush, leading to overcrowding at several public hotspots.
The IMD has forecast a continuation of mixed weather conditions, with few to fairly widespread rainfall activity likely on June 13.
Currently along with three Western Disturbances and a Cyclonic circulation state is effected by three weather system which have almost reduced impact of Heatwave or summer sweltering heatwave conditions.
A warning of thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds with speeds of 40 to 50 kmph has been issued for isolated places across the state.
The department has also warned of a low to moderate flash flood risk over a few watersheds and neighbourhoods of Shimla and Sirmaur districts during the next 24 hours.
About the Author
