Shimla, June 14 (UNI) A major tragedy was averted on the Chamba-Bharmour road between Sanwara and Bhutshangi on Saturday after massive landslides and a boulder blocked the route. Authorities acted swiftly after a warning was issued when smaller stones began rolling down. A huge boulder eventually crashed onto the road and tumbled into the valley, creating a dust storm downstream. No casualties were reported, and efforts are on to restore vehicular movement.
Meanwhile, light rain showers across several parts of Himachal Pradesh brought slight relief from the sweltering heat. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of gusty winds reaching speeds of 50 km/h in isolated pockets for the next four days until the southwest monsoon arrives.
The IMD’s latest bulletin indicates the possibility of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning in areas like Shimla, Palampur, Kangra, Bhunter, Jot, and Sundernagar. No hailstorms were reported, but windstorms with speeds up to 65 km/h were recorded in Bilaspur, while Seobagh and Bajaura saw gusts of up to 57 km/h.
In terms of rainfall, Chuwari recorded the highest with 31.4 mm, followed by Palampur (29.8 mm), Raipur Maidan (25.2 mm), and Berthin (24.6 mm). Manali received 18 mm of rain while Kangra reported 21.8 mm.
Una remained the hottest place in Himachal Pradesh with a maximum temperature of 42.7°C. Kangra recorded 38°C, while Mandi and Hamirpur registered 37.4°C each. Bhuntar sizzled at 37.3°C, and Bilaspur touched 39°C. In the hill stations, Dharamshala recorded 34°C, Dalhousie 28.2°C, Manali 29.2°C, and Shimla remained relatively pleasant at 27.5°C. Keylong, in the tribal belt, was the coolest with a maximum of 25.3°C.
The IMD has issued a warning for possible heatwave conditions at isolated pockets on Saturday. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and exercise caution, especially in landslide-prone and high wind areas.
