Severe Heatwave Engulfs Himachal Pradesh: Una and Neri Sizzle at 44 Degrees
A severe heatwave swept across Himachal Pradesh on Sunday, disrupting normal life as temperatures soared to unprecedented levels. The state’s Meteorological Center in Shimla reported that seven locations experienced temperatures exceeding the 40-degree Celsius mark, with Una and Neri in Hamirpur recording the highest at a blistering 44 degrees Celsius. This marks the peak temperature of the summer season so far.
In addition to Una and Neri, other regions in the foothills also faced extreme heat. Bilaspur recorded a maximum temperature of 42.4 degrees Celsius, while Dhaulakuan in Sirmour reached 41.9 degrees. Sundernagar experienced 40.3 degrees, Bertin in Bilaspur 40.2 degrees, and Kangra hit 40 degrees. Chamba and Mandi recorded slightly lower but still intense temperatures at 38.8 degrees each, with Hamirpur and Bhuntar reaching 37 degrees. Solan saw 36.6 degrees, Dharamshala 36 degrees, and tourist hotspots like Kasauli and Airport Jubberhati recorded 33 degrees.
Higher altitude regions remained relatively cooler but still warmer than usual. Keylong in Lahaul Spiti recorded 19.4 degrees, Kalpa 23.8 degrees, Kufri 23.9 degrees, and Tabo and Narakanda 23.6 degrees each. Mashobra and Shimla recorded 29.5 degrees, while Manali experienced 27 degrees.
These alarming figures underscore the severe weather conditions prevailing in the region, raising concerns among residents and authorities. Such high temperatures pose significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations. In response, the state government and health officials are advising residents to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and take necessary precautions to combat the heat.
Meteorologists attribute this temperature spike to prevailing weather patterns and predict that the heatwave may persist for a few more days before any significant relief is expected. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines to mitigate the effects of the heatwave.
