The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a double weather warning for Himachal Pradesh, predicting a severe heatwave over the next two days before a fresh western disturbance brings widespread rain, snowfall and hailstorms across the state later this week.
According to the latest bulletin issued by the Meteorological Center in Shimla, dry weather conditions are likely to prevail on May 26 and 27, causing a sharp rise in temperatures in several areas.
The IMD has placed isolated areas in Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Solan, Shimla and Sirmaur districts under ‘yellow’ alert for heatwave conditions.
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Minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to rise by 2 to 5 degrees Celsius in most parts of the state during this period, officials said. Una recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state at 41.6 degrees Celsius during the past 24 hours, while Keylong remained the coldest with the minimum temperature reaching 2.5 degrees Celsius.
However, the Meteorological Department has indicated a major change from May 28 onwards, as a fresh western disturbance is expected to affect northwest India.
Under its influence, light to moderate rain and snowfall is likely at many places in Himachal Pradesh on May 28 and 29. Thunderstorms, lightning and hailstorms with gusty winds of up to 40 to 50 km per hour are also expected in several locations, while isolated areas may see wind speeds of up to 60 km per hour.
The IMD also warned that high altitude areas like Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti may experience strong surface winds of 40 to 50 km per hour during the disturbances.
Temperatures are expected to drop sharply after the rainy period. Maximum temperatures may drop by 2 to 5 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures are likely to drop by 2 to 6 degrees Celsius over the subsequent two to three days, providing significant relief from the prevailing heat.
The Meteorological Office also issued warnings to residents and farmers in light of the changing weather conditions.
People living in low hills and plain areas have been advised to avoid prolonged exposure to heat, stay hydrated and wear light cotton clothing. Farmers have been urged to provide light and frequent irrigation to standing crops and adopt mulching practices to conserve soil moisture.
In the central and high hill areas, authorities warned that strong winds and snowstorms could damage crops, uproot temporary structures and disrupt communication lines. Farmers were advised to install hail nets to protect orchards and crops, while residents were urged to stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid taking shelter under trees or unstable structures.
The weather is likely to improve gradually from May 30 onwards, with only light rain or snowfall expected in some parts of the state, the IMD said.
