Shimla, April 3 – Multiple downpours, yet, March remained rain deficient

March also remained rain deficient in Himachal Pradesh as below-average rainfall was recorded across the State. According to the Meteorological Department, the State received a deficient rainfall of 41% in March 2023, with only 66.8mm of actual rain recorded, compared to the normal 113.4mm for the month.

Seven active western disturbances affected the State during the month, resulting in scattered to fairly widespread precipitation. However, the overall rainfall remained below average, with only three districts, Sirmaur, Bilaspur, and Solan, recording excess rain. The other districts, including Chamba, Kullu, Lahaul Spiti, and Kinnaur, received deficient rainfall.

Also read: Rain, snow in February: Deficient by 71 pc informs 

The highest precipitation of the month was recorded on March 21st, with Khadrala in Shimla recording the highest snow of 22.0 cm and Pachhad in Sirmaur recording the highest rainfall of 94.0 mm. Also, Chief amount of rain recorded on various dates across the State, with Manali recording 12.0 mm of rain on March 2nd, Jhandutta recording 30.3 mm, Shimla recording 15.6 mm of rainfall on March 9th, and Bangana recording 28.0 mm of showers on March 16th.

The State witnessed light to moderate hailstorm activity in low and mid-hills in Shimla, Kangra, Mandi, Bilaspur, and Solan, for 7-8 days. 

The highest snowfall of the month was recorded on March 21st, with Khadarala recording 22.0 cm of snowfall, followed by Gondla, with 16.5 cm of snowfall on March 26th.

The data indicates that March has historically been a low precipitation month in the State, with 2004 recording the minimum precipitation of -99%, followed by 2008 with -96% precipitation. The year 2015 recorded the maximum precipitation with a 72% departure, followed by 2007 with a 52% departure.

The rainfall deficiency in March may impact the State’s agricultural sector, as many farmers rely on the monsoon season for their crops. 

Also read: HP winter season continues to be mainly rain/snow deficient :IMD

Notably, in light of the drought-like conditions of the State, since winters, the government must take appropriate measures to mitigate the effects of rainfall deficiency and ensure the well-being of its citizens.

Team Himachal Scape

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