Shimla: Heat wave conditions are expected to intensify across Himachal Pradesh from Sunday as the weather department has forecast clear skies in the state till May 21.

According to the Meteorological Department, temperatures are likely to rise by four to five degrees Celsius over the next few days due to continuous sunshine and dry weather conditions.

The state had witnessed frequent rain and hailstorms during the first half of May, keeping temperatures below normal in most districts. Even during the last 24 hours, temperatures in several cities remained lower than the seasonal average.

In Chamba, the maximum temperature settled at 31.4 degrees Celsius, which was 6.4 degrees below normal. Una recorded 35.4 degrees Celsius, 3.5 degrees below normal, while Dharamsala registered 30 degrees Celsius, down by 1.2 degrees from the average.

Similarly, Nahan recorded a maximum temperature of 32.4 degrees Celsius, nearly 1.9 degrees below normal, while Keylong remained cooler at 18.3 degrees Celsius, 1.5 degrees below the seasonal average.

Meteorological officials said the heat will mainly affect the plains and lower hill regions of the state. Daytime temperatures are expected to rise sharply in districts such as Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Mandi, Kangra, Sirmaur and Solan.

Residents in these areas are likely to experience intense daytime heat, making outdoor movement difficult during afternoon hours. Night temperatures are also expected to increase gradually over the coming days.

Relief Likely After May 22 as Western Disturbance Becomes Active

The weather department said the prevailing heat conditions may not continue for long, as a fresh Western Disturbance is expected to become active from May 22.

Under its influence, light rainfall or drizzle is likely in higher and mid-altitude regions of the state, which could bring temporary relief from the rising temperatures.

Himachal Received Above-Normal Rainfall in May

According to the Meteorological Department, Himachal Pradesh has received around 8 per cent more rainfall than normal so far this month.

Officials said the above-normal rainfall and repeated hailstorms in May helped keep temperatures under control across the state until mid-May. However, with dry weather expected over the next few days, heat conditions are set to intensify in plains and mid-hill regions.