Shimla, Apr 26 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh continued to reel under hot and dry conditions on Friday as temperatures soared across the state.
The Sikh pilgrimage Paonta Sahib in Sirmaur district recorded the highest maximum temperature of the season so far at a scorching 40.0 degrees Celsius, while Una followed closely behind at 39.8 degrees Celsius.
With no rainfall activity reported anywhere in the state, the mercury surged well above normal across both hills and foothills.
Shimla, the capital city, recorded a maximum temperature of 25.5 degrees Celsius, which is three degrees above normal, reflecting the widespread warming trend. Similarly, most towns across the mid and lower hills reported maximum temperatures above the 30-degree mark.
Hamirpur registered 37.8 degrees Celsius, Bilaspur 37.2 degrees, Kangra 36.2 degrees, and Mandi 35.2 degrees Celsius, all exceeding their seasonal averages by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius.
Dharamshala touched 32.0 degrees, Solan 33.0 degrees, and Nahan 34.9 degrees Celsius, showcasing how widespread the heat spell has become. Even traditionally cooler regions like Manali and Kalpa experienced warmer-than-usual conditions, recording 24.7 degrees and 17.8 degrees Celsius respectively.
Minimum temperatures, however, remained near normal across the state, with Keylong being the coldest at 2.1 degrees Celsius.
According to the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, the weather remained completely dry during the past 24 hours, and no significant change in minimum or maximum temperatures was observed.
However, under the influence of a persistent western disturbance and a cyclonic circulation over southwest Rajasthan and adjoining Pakistan, the department has forecast isolated rain and thunderstorms over the next two days in parts of the mid and high hills.
No weather warnings have been issued, but slight relief from the heat is expected as the week progresses, particularly in higher elevations.
Himachal Pradesh is likely to experience isolated precipitation on Saturday and Sunday, while most lower and mid-hill regions will continue to face hot and dry weather.
The maximum temperatures are expected to remain above normal, especially in Una, Sirmaur, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Kangra districts.
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