Himachal faces 23% rain deficit this monsoon, 7 districts severely affected
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Himachal Pradesh is grappling with a significant rainfall deficit this monsoon season, with the state recording 23 per cent less rain than normal.
Of the 12 districts, five districts — Bilaspur, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla and Sirmaur — experienced more rain than usual in August. However, the remaining seven districts faced a shortfall, contributing to an overall deficit that has raised concerns across the state.
From August 1 to 31, Himachal Pradesh recorded 244.7 mm of rain, slightly below the normal expectation of 256.8 mm, leading to a 5 per cent rainfall deficit for the month. The monsoon season, which spans from June 27 to the present, has been marked by erratic weather patterns.
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51 cloudbursts in state
Shimla was the only district to buck the trend, receiving 55 per cent more rain than its usual share, while the other 11 districts fell short.
This monsoon has not only been deficient but also destructive. The state witnessed 51 incidents of cloudbursts and 37 landslides, resulting in 34 fatalities. Five persons were injured, and 33 remain missing. The monsoon’s fury also led to the destruction of 122 houses, 17 shops and 24 cow shelters, along with the loss of 149 domestic animals.
Yellow alert for heavy rain
The weakening of the monsoon is evident in many parts of Himachal Pradesh, including the capital Shimla, where sunny skies have dominated recent days. The Meteorological Centre in Shimla forecasts light rain in some areas until September 6, with a yellow alert for heavy rainfall on September 2. An alert for lightning and thunderstorms has also been issued for September 3.
Rainfall measurements on Friday night indicated varying levels across the state, with Sundernagar recording 44.8 mm, Shilaru 43.1 mm and Shimla 15.1 mm. Despite these showers, the aftermath of the monsoon’s earlier intensity continues to disrupt life, with 72 roads remaining closed due to landslides and 32 water supply schemes still affected.
