Heat Wave Hits Shimla and Manali: Hottest Day of the Season Recorded, Yellow Alert for 6-7 April

Shimla, 6 April: In an unexpected turn of weather, Himachal Pradesh is experiencing intense heat, with even the usually cooler regions of Shimla and Manali feeling the effects. On Saturday, both cities recorded the hottest day of the season, with temperatures reaching 24.4°C, marking an increase of about one and a half degrees above the normal average for this time of year. The surge in temperatures highlights the growing intensity of the heat in the region.

Sweltering Heat Across Himachal’s Plains and Hills

The heat was more severe in the plain districts of Himachal. Una recorded the highest temperature in the state at 35.8°C, while other areas also saw significant spikes. Temperatures in Sundernagar and Bilaspur reached 33.7°C and 33.1°C, respectively, while Nahan recorded 32.1°C, and Kangra saw a temperature of 32.8°C. In Mandi, the mercury touched 31.6°C, with temperatures in Dhaula Kuan and Solan also surpassing 30°C.

The state’s average temperature has risen by about one degree over the last 24 hours, and the minimum temperature is running 3.4°C above normal, making the nights unusually warmer.

Heat Wave Warning for 6th-7th April

The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for a heat wave on 6th and 7th April. Kangra, Mandi, Kullu, and Solan districts are expected to experience hot winds, especially in Mandi and Kullu, which could lead to heatwave-like conditions. In Kangra, the temperature is likely to remain high, and Solan district will also be under a heatwave warning on April 7. Residents and tourists are advised to stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure, and take necessary precautions during this period.

Change in Weather Expected from April 9: Rain and Snowfall Likely

A western disturbance is set to affect the region, bringing a shift in weather from April 9. The Meteorological Center has forecasted light rain and snowfall in Chamba, Kullu, Kangra, Lahaul-Spiti, and Kinnaur districts. This disturbance will bring much-needed relief from the heat, especially for the upper regions of the state.

A yellow alert has been issued for Chamba, Kullu, and Kangra districts on April 9, with warnings of rain and thunder. Local residents and tourists in these areas are advised to stay cautious. However, the weather is expected to remain clear in most of the state from 5th to 8th April, with no significant storm activity anticipated.

The sudden heat wave, followed by the expected change in weather, marks a dramatic shift for Himachal Pradesh, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the region’s climate as it moves from one extreme to another.