After days of sweltering heat, Himachal Pradesh finally breathed a sigh of relief on Sunday as light showers graced several parts of the State, providing much-needed respite from soaring temperatures. According to the Shimla Meteorological Department, this change in weather is likely to continue, with rain expected to persist across the state till June 21. Heavy rainfall is also likely in isolated areas on June 20 and 21.
A yellow alert has been issued for 10 districts — excluding tribal regions Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur — warning of thunderstorms, rain, and gusty winds until June 19. The department has further predicted a dip of four to five degree Celsius in maximum temperatures over the next few days, offering a significant break from the intense heatwave conditions that had gripped the region.
On Sunday, Una remained the hottest district with a searing 42.2 degree Celsius, followed by Hamirpur (36.2 degree Celsius), Bilaspur (35.4 degree Celsius), and Kangra (35.3 degree Celsius). Popular tourist spots also felt the heat, with Dharamshala recording 32 degree Celsius, Solan 31.4 degree Celsius, and Shimla 27 degree Celsius. Meanwhile, tribal areas like Kukumseri in Lahaul-Spiti recorded the lowest temperature at 9.2 degree Celsius.
From June 15 onward, mid and high-altitude regions are likely to witness more widespread rainfall, and the southwest monsoon is expected to arrive by June 27.
As Himachal transitions from summer into the monsoon phase, authorities have advised residents and tourists to remain alert, stay hydrated, avoid peak afternoon exposure, and closely follow official weather updates.