Shimla: After enjoying three consecutive days of mostly clear skies, several parts of Himachal Pradesh are once again witnessing a rise in temperatures and uncomfortable humidity, with the weather department predicting that the current dry spell will end later this week as fresh rain-bearing systems approach the region.
Daytime temperatures have climbed across the state, particularly in the lower and mid-hill districts. Una remained the hottest location, recording a maximum temperature of 36.2 degrees Celsius, while at least 11 towns reported temperatures above the 30-degree mark. Meteorologists said the increase has pushed daytime readings above seasonal averages in many areas.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), residents are unlikely to see any significant relief over the next two days. Humid conditions are expected to persist until a fresh Western Disturbance becomes active on July 17, setting the stage for another spell of monsoon activity.
The weather office has indicated that rainfall intensity is likely to increase between July 18 and July 20. A yellow alert has been issued for parts of Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi and Shimla districts, where isolated heavy showers may occur.
Officials have cautioned that intense rainfall during this period could trigger landslides, flash floods in vulnerable areas and a sudden rise in water levels of rivers and seasonal streams. People travelling to hilly regions have been advised to monitor weather updates and avoid landslide-prone stretches whenever possible.
The current dry phase follows an active start to the monsoon season. Since its arrival in Himachal Pradesh on June 30, rainfall has largely remained above normal, although activity has weakened over the past few days.
IMD data shows that the state has received around 21 per cent excess rainfall between July 1 and July 14. While Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Lahaul-Spiti and Mandi have recorded below-average rainfall during this period, several other districts have witnessed surplus precipitation. Kinnaur has emerged as the wettest district so far, receiving nearly 134 per cent more rainfall than its normal seasonal average.
Weather experts expect the upcoming rain spell to revive monsoon activity across Himachal and help bring temperatures down after the recent surge.
