Severe Heatwave Grips Himachal: Mercury Nears 45°C, Hottest Day of the Season

Shimla, June 10:
Himachal Pradesh is currently in the grip of an intense heatwave, with soaring temperatures affecting both the plains and the hill regions. Tuesday marked the hottest day of the season, with temperatures nearing 45°C in several parts of the state. Five key districts—Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Kangra, and Mandi—recorded temperatures above 40°C, with Una being the hottest at 44.2°C. In Hamirpur’s Neri, the mercury touched 43.3°C, followed by Bilaspur at 40.8°C, and both Kangra and Mandi recorded 40°C.

Even the capital, Shimla, wasn’t spared, logging a maximum temperature of 29.5°C—four degrees above normal. Tourist hotspot Manali recorded 31.2°C, five degrees above its usual average. Cold desert regions like Lahaul-Spiti also felt the heat, with Keylong hitting 25.9°C.

Heatwave Alert for Next Two Days
The Meteorological Department has issued a heatwave warning for Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, and Kangra for June 11 and 12. With dry winds and intense sunlight expected, temperatures may rise further. The weather across much of the state is likely to remain dry, and conditions have become so harsh that many people are avoiding going out after 9 AM. The worst affected are farmers, construction workers, and daily commuters. The heatwave has severely disrupted daily life.

Hill Stations Not Spared Either
This season, even Himachal’s famed hill stations haven’t been immune to the heat. Shimla, Manali, Dalhousie, and Kufri are all registering temperatures 3–4°C above normal. Markets and roads wear a deserted look during the afternoon, though mornings and evenings provide some relief. Tourists, expecting cool weather, are returning disappointed.

Unusual Heat in Lahaul-Spiti Too
The tribal district of Lahaul-Spiti, known for its year-round cold, is also experiencing unusually warm conditions, with temperatures 3–4°C above average. As a result, the snow is melting faster, causing rising water levels in rivers like the Chandra and Bhaga. Increased flow has also started affecting farming activities, with villagers reporting reduced soil moisture in their fields.

Relief Likely From June 13 Onwards
There’s some respite in sight. According to the weather department, a change in conditions is expected starting June 13. Between June 13 and 15, thunderstorms, lightning, and winds reaching speeds of 40–50 km/h may hit several parts of the state. June 15 is expected to see more widespread impact, followed by light rainfall in some areas starting June 16. The change in weather is attributed to the activation of a western disturbance. Until then, residents are advised to stay cautious, especially children, the elderly, and those with health conditions, and to avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours.