India’s air force deployed helicopters in Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday as several forest fires broke out in the Kasauli region of the northern, hilly state.
Due to high winds and dry conditions the fire quickly spread over large areas. Heat wave continues to grip large parts of India, with maximum temperatures exceeding 47 degrees Celsius (116 Fahrenheit) in many states and cities.
At least two Indian Air Force helicopters were tackling the fire, according to the Press Trust of India, which showed videos of thick smoke rising from scenic forests and dense Himalayan trees.
Hindustan Times It was told that the fire department, forest department and Indian Army personnel are fighting to control the fire and save the people.
Dry winds as well as extreme heat are often precursors to forest fires, a more common occurrence in the West than in India. However, climate change and extreme temperatures have led to an increase in the incidence of forest fires in India as well.
An analysis by Down to Earth showed that there were 80% more wildfires in the first two months of 2026 compared to trends over the past decade. When compared to 2024, the hottest year on record so far, wildfires were 50% higher.
Udhampur forest of Jammu and Kashmir region has been battling a massive forest fire for the last three days. Local media reported that the fire has spread to several villages and is spreading amid strong winds.
Earlier, a massive forest fire had broken out in the northern state of Uttarakhand, but it was quickly brought under control.
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