Rain, Hailstorm Bring Relief from Heat in Himachal Pradesh; Yellow Alert in Effect Till May 28

Shimla, May 24 – A sudden shift in weather patterns brought heavy rain and hailstorms to several districts across Himachal Pradesh on Saturday, causing a noticeable drop in temperatures and triggering concerns among fruit growers. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for most parts of the state, warning of continued adverse weather through May 28.

Hailstorm Damages Apple Crops in Upper Hills

Districts such as Shimla, Solan, and Kullu witnessed intense rainfall and hail, particularly affecting apple orchards and other stone fruit crops. The unexpected hailstorm has caused significant damage to the produce, deepening concerns for horticulturists just ahead of the harvesting season.

In Shimla, the weather deteriorated post noon, with strong winds and persistent rain cooling down the region. Upper reaches of Shimla also reported light hail, exacerbating damage to the fruit-bearing trees.

Rain and Temperature Drop Across the State

According to the IMD, the average maximum temperature in the state has decreased by nearly 1°C due to the rainfall. However, plains such as Una remain hot, where the temperature climbed to 39.2°C, nearing the 40°C mark.

Here are some notable temperature readings from Saturday:

• Shimla: 25.6°C (↓1.4°C)

• Dharamshala: 31°C

• Manali: 28.2°C

• Kullu (Bhuntar): 36°C

• Mandi: 34.4°C

• Solan: 30°C

• Hamirpur: 37.3°C

• Chamba: 30°C

• Kufri: 20.4°C

• Kalpa: 25°C

Alerts and Forecast

On May 25 and 26, 9 out of 12 districts—excluding Una, Hamirpur, and Bilaspur—are expected to witness thunderstorms, lightning, and winds speeding up to 50 km/h, for which a yellow alert has been issued. The alert will be expanded statewide on May 27 and 28.

IMD Director Surender Paul has urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and take precautions during the alert period. “Hailstorms are likely to continue in mid and high hill areas. People should remain indoors during intense weather activity,” he advised.

Impact on Agriculture

The unseasonal weather, while bringing respite from summer heat, has raised serious concerns for Himachal’s horticulture-dependent economy, particularly for apple growers. Early damage reports suggest that the hail may have affected fruit quality and yield, prompting the need for assessment by the horticulture department.