Overview

• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts above-normal maximum and minimum temperatures for Himachal Pradesh in May, raising the likelihood of heatwave days.
• IMD's May outlook also anticipates above-normal rainfall in the plains and mid-hills of Himachal Pradesh, despite a 36% rainfall deficit recorded in April.
• Multiple weather systems, including western disturbances and cyclonic circulations, are driving thunderstorms, hailstorms, and gusty winds across northwest India, with alerts in place until May 6.
• Hailstorms and heavy rains have been reported in Shimla and other parts of Himachal Pradesh, causing minimum temperatures to drop by 2–5°C in several areas.
• Orange and yellow warnings have been issued for thunderstorms, lightning, and winds up to 50 km/h, with IMD predicting continued isolated to scattered rainfall through May 6.