Pallavi Sharma
DHARAMSHALA: Himachal Pradesh has witnessed its wettest August in 76 years, recording 431.3 mm of rainfall, which is 68 per cent above the normal monthly average of 256.8 mm.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD)-Shimla, this makes it the ninth-highest August rainfall recorded in the state since 1901 and the highest since 1949. The all-time record for August remains 542.4 mm in 1927.
Throughout the month, the state experienced frequent rainfall, ranging from normal to active precipitation on most days. The IMD noted vigorous rainfall activity on two days — August 25 and 26 — while five days — August 8, 10, 11, 13 and 22 — saw weaker rainfall activity. The pattern suggests a persistent monsoon presence, leading to widespread precipitation across most regions of the state.
Among districts, Kangra records highest rainfall
Among the districts, Kangra received the highest rainfall, with 816.2 mm of precipitation, making it the wettest district for the month. In contrast, Lahaul-Spiti received the lowest at 129.7 mm, though it was still classified under “normal” rainfall.
Kullu district saw the highest positive deviation from the average, recording 165 per cent above normal rainfall, while Lahaul-Spiti had the lowest positive departure, at just 10 per cent above normal.
The rainfall classification by district paints a broader picture of the regional disparities. Bilaspur, Chamba, Kinnaur, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Solan, and Una recorded large excess rainfall. Hamirpur, Kangra, and Sirmaur reported excess rainfall, whereas Lahaul-Spiti was the only district where precipitation remained within the normal range.
Light to moderate rainfall likely in first week of September
Looking ahead, the IMD forecasts that light to moderate rainfall is likely to continue in the first week of September. Most places in the state may receive rain on September 1 and 2, with the possibility of heavy to very heavy rain in a few areas.
Isolated extremely heavy rainfall is also expected on September 1. From September 3 to 7, rainfall is likely to taper off slightly, occurring at many to few places across the state.
The significant increase in rainfall and the recurrence of intense spells raise serious concerns about climate variability and disaster risk in the Himalayan region. With frequent landslides, road blockages and flashfloods becoming more common, disaster preparedness, early warning systems and sustainable infrastructure have become urgent priorities for both state authorities and local communities.
