Una breaches 44°C :Himachal Pradesh sizzles under escalating heatwave

Shimla, June 10,

A relentless heatwave has tightened its grip on Himachal Pradesh, pushing temperatures to unprecedented levels and raising alarms across the state. Una emerged as the epicentre of the scorching conditions on Tuesday, recording a blistering 44.2°C – the highest temperature registered in Himachal Pradesh this summer, surpassing its own record of 42.4°C set just yesterday.
The surge in mercury is intensifying concerns for public health, significantly elevating the risk of devastating forest fires, and exacerbating water scarcity in the lower and mid-hills of the state.
Beyond Una, other regions are also experiencing severe heat stress. Neri in Hamirpur district closely trailed Una with a searing 43°C, while Berthin and Bilaspur registered 38.8°C and 40.8°C respectively. The plains and lower hills are consistently clocking temperatures several degrees above their seasonal averages, creating widespread discomfort.
Even Shimla, the state capital, known for its cooler climate, has not been spared. The maximum temperature in the city reached an unusual 29.6°C, nearly four degrees above the seasonal norm. This follows Monday’s 29°C, marking the hottest consecutive spell of the season for Shimla.
The Meteorological Centre confirmed that maximum temperatures across the state have remained “appreciably above normal” over the past 24 hours, with no significant relief in sight. Areas like Mandi (40°C), Sundernagar (39.5°C), and Bhuntar (38.5°C) are also grappling with soaring heat, contributing to prolonged oppressive conditions.
Compounding the crisis, not a single drop of rain was recorded at any of the 20 weather stations, further intensifying humidity and deteriorating air quality. A light haze has become a common sight in the lower hills, and air quality remains moderate due to suspended particulate matter.
Paradoxically, despite the intense heat, Himachal Pradesh’s popular tourist destinations, including Shimla and Manali, are witnessing an influx of visitors. Long queues of vehicles are a common sight as tourists from the sweltering plains flock to the hills in search of respite from the heatwave.
The India Meteorological Department’s forecast offers little immediate comfort, predicting mainly dry weather for the next three days. Authorities are strongly urging residents to prioritize safety by staying indoors during peak heat hours, maintaining adequate hydration, and exercising extreme caution with fire, particularly in forest-prone areas.

About the Author

Himachalscape bureau

Administrator

The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

View All Posts

Himachalscape bureau

The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.