Rising temperatures and dry weather have triggered widespread forest fires across Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh
May 29, 2026: Massive forest fires have broken out across several states in North India, severely affecting regions in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Uttarakhand. Officials said rising temperatures, dry weather conditions, and strong winds have accelerated the spread of flames, creating serious environmental and safety concerns in multiple hill districts.
In Himachal Pradesh, wildfire incidents have been reported from Shimla, Solan, Kasol, and Kotkhai, where thick smoke has covered large forest areas and reduced visibility. Jammu and Kashmir has also witnessed extensive fires in Rajouri, Udhampur, and Ramban districts. Authorities said difficult terrain and limited accessibility are making firefighting operations challenging, forcing local residents and forest teams to rely on limited resources to control the blaze.
Uttarakhand remains among the worst-affected states, with fires reported from Rudraprayag, Nainital, Dehradun, Ranikhet, Tehri Garhwal, Almora, Chamoli, Uttarkashi, and Lansdowne. Officials said continuous monitoring and emergency response operations are underway, but the lack of water infrastructure and steep mountainous terrain continue to hamper firefighting efforts. Experts warn that increasing temperatures and prolonged dry spells are contributing to the rising frequency and intensity of forest fires across the Himalayan region.