Heatwave Grips Himachal: Una Sizzles at Nearly 42°C, Evening Showers Bring Respite to Shimla
Shimla, May 15:
Summer has tightened its grip on Himachal Pradesh, with scorching sun and hot winds disrupting daily life across the plains and even raising temperatures in the hill regions. On Thursday, Una emerged as the hottest spot in the state, recording a maximum temperature of 41.8°C — the highest so far this season — leaving residents sweltering under intense heat.
Other low-lying districts also experienced high temperatures: Dhaulakuan in Sirmaur recorded 38.9°C, Bilaspur 38.7°C, Kangra 37.8°C, Sundernagar 37.6°C, Mandi 37°C, and Barthi 36.8°C.
The heat wasn’t confined to the plains. Even popular hill destinations like Shimla and Manali saw temperatures rise to 27.2°C, 2–3 degrees above normal for this time of year. However, by evening, Shimla experienced moderate rainfall, providing much-needed relief from the day’s heat. Solan recorded a high of 33.5°C.
Tribal regions also reported higher-than-usual temperatures. Keylong, the headquarters of Lahaul-Spiti, recorded 19.8°C, which is 1.6°C above normal. Tourist spots like Kufri and Narkanda in Shimla district saw the mercury rise to 21.3°C and 20.8°C, respectively. Overall, the state’s average maximum temperature was 3.1°C above normal — a notable deviation for this time of year.
The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued a weather advisory for the coming days, predicting varied conditions across the state. On May 16, light rain and snow are likely at a few places in mid and higher hill regions, while clear skies are expected in the plains.
Dry weather is forecast for most of the low and mid-hill areas on May 17 and 18, though light precipitation may continue in higher altitudes. A yellow alert has been issued for Chamba and Kangra districts on May 18, warning of gusty winds and lightning. The advisory will extend to Bilaspur, Mandi, Shimla, Solan, Sirmaur, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti on May 19, with winds possibly reaching speeds of up to 50 km/h.
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