Early heatwave sweeps Himachal Pradesh; temperatures up to 15°C above normal
PTC Web Desk: Even before the winter season has completely faded, several parts of Himachal Pradesh are already witnessing unusually high temperatures, with some areas experiencing conditions close to a heatwave. In many locations, temperatures are running 10°C to nearly 15°C above the seasonal average, raising concerns among residents and farmers alike.
In a surprising development for early March, the maximum temperature has crossed the 30°C mark in a few areas of the state. Weather experts warn that if the current dry conditions persist for a few more days, several hill towns could record their highest-ever March temperatures.
Some prominent locations, including Shimla, Kangra, Sundernagar, Kalpa and Bhuntar, are currently hovering just 1–2°C below their all-time March records.
Kalpa, located in Kinnaur district, recorded a maximum temperature of 24°C, which is 14.8°C higher than the normal level for this time of year. The town’s previous highest temperature for March was 24.4°C, recorded in 2010, indicating that the current heat is approaching record levels.
Similarly, Shimla registered a daytime temperature of 25.2°C, moving closer to its March record of 27.2°C set in 2004. Notably, the hill station had not crossed 20°C during the first week of March in the past five years, making this year’s spike particularly unusual.
The lower hill regions, including Sundernagar and Kangra, are also reporting temperatures 8–9°C above normal. However, the most significant departures from the seasonal average are being seen in the mid and higher hill areas.
Officials from the meteorological department say the sudden rise is largely due to prevailing atmospheric conditions. According to a weather department official, temperatures have been consistently high across the mid and upper hill regions in recent days, and similar conditions are expected to continue for another 48 hours.
The official explained that the current wind pattern over the region is preventing moisture-laden winds from reaching the hills, allowing temperatures to rise more quickly than usual.
Night temperatures have also increased significantly. In Shimla, the minimum temperature was recorded at 15.4°C, which is 9.3°C above the normal level for this period.
The combination of unusually high temperatures and prolonged dry conditions is becoming a cause of concern for farmers, particularly apple growers in lower altitude areas, as such weather can disrupt flowering and affect crop health.
Weather authorities have, however, indicated some relief ahead. Rainfall is likely in certain parts of Himachal Pradesh from March 7, and if the forecast materialises, it could bring a slight drop in temperatures across the state.
- With inputs from agencies
