Monsoon likely to arrive in state between 20-25 June
By Arun Pratap Singh
Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 18 May: Scorching heat is tightening its grip over both the plains and hill districts of Uttarakhand and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning that temperatures are likely to rise further over next 48 hours before weather conditions may begin to change later this week. The residents across several parts of the state are already reeling under intense sunshine and rising daytime temperatures and meteorologists have indicated that the mercury levels may climb by another two to four degrees Celsius over the next two days, worsening heat conditions in the region.
According to the Meteorological Centre in Dehradun, there is currently no significant western disturbance or active weather system influencing Uttarakhand weather, due to which rainfall and snowfall activities are unlikely over the next 48 hours. Weather experts said the absence of any major atmospheric system has resulted in clear skies and strong solar radiation, leading to steadily rising temperatures in both the plains and the hills.
The temperatures in Dehradun have already crossed 37 degrees Celsius, while Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar are witnessing heat wave-like conditions. The IMD has also issued warnings regarding rising temperatures in parts of north-western India, with several neighbouring states recording severe heat conditions. In Uttarakhand, plains districts including Haridwar, Roorkee and Udham Singh Nagar are expected to remain particularly vulnerable to extreme daytime heat over next few days.
The officials at the Meteorological Centre have stated that although Uttarakhand has not witnessed an exceptionally prolonged heat-wave this year so far, periodic spikes in temperature have caused considerable discomfort to the residents. The last week of April had also witnessed unusually high temperatures in many districts, especially in urban centres and foothill regions where humidity and direct sunlight made conditions oppressive during afternoon hours. However, rains in between had cooled down the temperature, even turning the weather pleasant for some days in between.
Director of the Meteorological Centre in Dehradun, Dr CS Tomar said no reports of rainfall or snowfall have been received from anywhere in the state during the past 24 hours and there is little possibility of any major weather activity during the next two days. He explained that the current weather pattern does not indicate the presence of any active system capable of triggering widespread rainfall or snowfall across Uttarakhand.
However, he added that a change in weather conditions is likely after May 20. According to the forecast, light thunderstorm activity may develop in the hill areas between May 20 and May 24. Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Pithoragarh and Bageshwar districts are likely to receive light rainfall, while higher Himalayan regions may witness light snowfall. Meteorologists believe this change may provide temporary relief from the prevailing heat conditions.
The IMD has also pointed out that rising temperatures could sharply increase the risk of forest fires in the state. The officials stated that the dry weather conditions, combined with increasing heat and low moisture levels in forests, create favourable conditions for fire incidents, particularly in pine forests of the hills. The Meteorological Centre has been regularly sharing temperature forecasts and forest fire-related weather inputs with the Forest Department to assist in preparedness and response measures. The forecast bulletins issued earlier this month had predicted a likely increase of three to five degrees Celsius in temperatures over several districts during the second half of May. In some plains areas, the mercury has already approached seasonal highs, intensifying discomfort during afternoon hours.
The experts have advised people, particularly children, senior citizens and those working outdoors, to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours. The authorities have also urged residents to remain hydrated and take precautions against heat-related illnesses as temperatures continue to rise.
At the same time, weather officials have indicated that the southwest monsoon is expected to arrive in Uttarakhand between June 20 and June 25, broadly in line with the normal monsoon schedule for the region. Until then, the state is expected to experience intermittent spells of heat, particularly in the plains, with occasional relief in the hills due to isolated rainfall and thunderstorm activity later this month.
