Una records 3rd highest April temperature in 10 years, says IMD
Shimla, April 28,
Himachal Pradesh is experiencing an intense heatwave, with Una district recording its highest April temperature in a decade. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the mercury soared to 42°C on Sunday, signaling a significant rise compared to previous years.
Kuldeep Shrivastava, head of the Regional Meteorological Centre, confirmed that the last time Una experienced such extreme heat in April was on April 30, 2022, when the temperature touched 43.2°C, and in 2010, when it reached 43°C. He noted that Sunday’s 42°C is the third-highest maximum temperature recorded in Una during April over the past ten years.
The sudden jump of two degrees from the previous day points toward developing heatwave conditions in the region. Despite partly cloudy skies, temperatures rose sharply, particularly in the lower hills and foothill areas.
Several other parts of Himachal Pradesh also witnessed an unusual temperature surge. Sundernagar reported a maximum of 36.8°C, Bhuntar recorded 34.5°C, and Dharamshala, a popular tourist destination, touched 33°C. In Sirmaur district, Paonta Sahib emerged among the hottest spots, with temperatures nearing 40°C.
Even the state capital, Shimla, typically known for its pleasant weather, felt the heat, recording a maximum of 28.2°C — 4.8 degrees above the normal average for this time of year.
Tourist hubs like Manali and Dharamshala, generally sought after for their cool climate, also experienced warmer-than-usual conditions. Manali registered a maximum of 26.4°C, while Kalpa in tribal Kinnaur remained relatively cooler at 20.2°C. Keylong in Lahaul-Spiti, true to its reputation, stayed the coldest with a maximum temperature of 15.5°C.
However, despite the heat, tourist footfall in popular destinations like Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala remained strong over the weekend, as visitors flocked to the hills seeking some relief.
The IMD has cautioned that if the current trend continues, parts of Himachal Pradesh could face intensified heatwave conditions in the coming days, urging residents and tourists alike to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak hours.
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