SHIMLA, June 12 — Himachal Pradesh is reeling under an intense heat wave, with many parts of the plains, and the low and mid-hills registering soaring temperatures. Una district is nearing 45°C, while several other stations have recorded maximums above 40°C, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an orange alert for heat wave and severe heat wave conditions in isolated parts of Una and Kullu.
A yellow alert has also been issued for isolated areas in Mandi, Shimla, Solan, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Kangra districts.
“Maximum temperatures are currently four to five degrees above normal across most regions, and even the minimum temperatures are significantly elevated,” said Sandeep Sharma, senior scientist at the Meteorological Centre, Shimla. “Weather will remain largely dry across the state until June 13, with more areas likely to experience heat wave conditions.”
This is the first heat wave alert for June, as no warning was issued in May due to regular rainfall last month.
In the past 24 hours, places like Sundernagar, Bhuntar, Dharamsala, Una, Mandi, and Manali recorded heat wave conditions. However, relief may be in sight. “Light rainfall is likely to bring down temperatures from June 14 to 17,” Sharma added.
Despite the extreme heat, the impact on agriculture is expected to be minimal, as most crops are still in the sowing stage. However, horticulture is vulnerable, particularly fruit crops. “Litchi has reached maturity, and prolonged heat may lead to fruit cracking,” said a horticulture official in Kangra. “In the apple belts, higher temperatures could increase pest attacks.”
The weather department has advised the public to avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and keep their heads covered. For farmers, light and frequent irrigation to standing crops and mulching to preserve soil moisture have been recommended.
As Himachal endures this rare bout of intense summer heat, authorities remain on high alert to monitor further developments.
