Scorching heat in Himachal Pradesh, temperature in Dharamshala reaches 32 degrees Celsius

Shimla—Abnormal heat continues to rage in Himachal Pradesh, with temperatures in Dharamsala reaching 32 degrees Celsius, the highest temperature recorded in September in 36 years. This extreme weather has left residents in a fix, as humidity levels have risen following a pause in the rainy season. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also issued a yellow alert for rain on September 26 and 27.

The last time Dharamsala recorded such a high temperature in this month was in 1988, at 38 degrees Celsius. Since then, temperatures have rarely exceeded 31 degrees Celsius, but there has been a recent spike. The city’s weather has become a topic of discussion, as it has recorded temperatures far above seasonal norms.

Along with the heat, Una recorded a temperature of 38.6 degrees Celsius, the highest September temperature in four years. Similar temperature extremes were seen in September 2020 as well, indicating a worrying trend of rising temperatures in the region. The mercury hovered around 28 degrees Celsius in the capital Shimla, while Kangra recorded 35 degrees Celsius, while 17 areas across the state recorded temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius.

The IMD has predicted that the weather will remain clear in most parts of the state on Wednesday, leading to a possible rise in temperatures. However, there may be relief as the yellow alert for rain on 26th and 27th may bring some respite. Thereafter, the weather is expected to clear again between September 28 and 30, and the monsoon is likely to withdraw from the state in the first week of October.

Despite the continuing heat, the state has recorded slightly less rainfall than normal in September. From September 1 to 24, Himachal Pradesh received 100 mm of rain, which is 8% less than the normal 108 mm for this period. The rain expected this weekend may help make up for this shortfall and bring some respite from the scorching heat.