Shimla/Solan, May 21
In the wake of an unprecedented heatwave sweeping across Himachal Pradesh, the Health and Family Welfare Department has issued a public advisory urging people to take precautionary measures to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses.
The hill state, traditionally known for its cool climate, is currently witnessing unusually high temperatures, affecting normal life across the plains as well as several mid and higher hill regions. The sweltering conditions are posing serious health risks, particularly for children, elderly citizens and outdoor workers.
According to reports, a child in Kangra district reportedly died after suffering a suspected heat stroke and falling unconscious amid the intense heat.
Rising temperatures have also forced district administrations in several parts of the state to alter school timings, while some institutions have announced early summer vacations.
Chief Medical Officer Solan, Dr. Ajay Pathak, said that people should avoid unnecessary physical exertion during afternoon hours when temperatures remain at their peak. He advised residents to wear light cotton and full-sleeved clothes and keep their heads covered while venturing outdoors.
He also urged people to carry drinking water and remain hydrated by consuming fluids at regular intervals. Instead of excessive intake of tea, coffee and cold drinks, people were advised to consume lemonade, fruit juice and salt-sugar solutions to prevent dehydration.
Dr. Pathak said that in case of heat stroke, the affected person should immediately be shifted to a cool place and given ORS or a salt-sugar solution. Efforts should be made to cool the body, and if the condition worsens, the patient should be taken without delay to the nearest health institution.
The Chief Medical Officer directed all Block Medical Officers to remain on alert and ensure adequate availability of medicines and necessary arrangements for treatment of heat stroke patients.
Health authorities stated that dehydration and heat stroke can largely be prevented through timely precautions and awareness.
According to the Meteorological Centre Shimla, maximum temperatures in most parts of the state are running four to five degrees above normal.
Una remained the hottest place in the state with a maximum temperature of 44 degrees Celsius, while several stations in lower and mid hill regions recorded temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius. Sundernagar recorded 39.2 degrees, Kangra 39 degrees, Nahan 38.3 degrees, Solan 36.5 degrees and Bhuntar 35.1 degrees Celsius.
Even the capital Shimla, known for its mild summer climate, recorded 30.5 degrees Celsius, which is significantly above normal for this time of the year.
The Met office stated that there was no large change in maximum temperatures during the last 24 hours and heatwave conditions are likely to continue in many parts of the state over the next few days.
Meanwhile, the ongoing heatwave has engulfed most parts of the state, with temperatures in several lower hill and plain districts crossing 40 degrees Celsius.
However, recent snowfall in higher reaches has increased water discharge in glacial-fed rivers, which is expected to boost power generation in major hydroelectric projects across the state.
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