Monsoon set to arrive early in Himachal, heavy rainfall likely from June 20 onwards -

Shimla, June 18,

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The Southwest Monsoon is advancing rapidly and is now poised to cover large parts of Himachal Pradesh between June 20 and 21, nearly a week ahead of onset date of June 27, last year, stated a media communique by IMD. This early arrival comes on the back of favourable atmospheric conditions, driven by the transition from El Niño to La Niña, an active Madden-Julian Oscillation, and a western disturbance currently hovering over Punjab and its neighbouring regions.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the monsoon’s early surge has already started impacting weather patterns across the state. Light to moderate rainfall was reported in several areas on Wednesday, offering much-needed relief after weeks of persistent heat. Sundernagar recorded the highest rainfall at 5 mm, followed by Bhuntar and Gohar with 3 mm each. Mandi, Banjar, Rohru, Sarahan, Seobagh, and Jogindernagar recorded 2 mm each, while Kasauli, Manali, Baijnath, and Keylong saw 1 mm. This wet spell has triggered a cooling trend, with minimum temperatures dipping to 16.6°C in Shimla, 18.6°C in Una, 9.8°C in Keylong and Kukumseri, and 21.8°C in Mandi and Kangra.

Also read: Above normal rainfall likely in Himachal Pradesh this monsoon, says IMD

The IMD has issued an orange alert from June 23 onwards, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated locations, especially in the mid-hill and low-hill districts. Officials predict that this year’s monsoon will be both aggressive during onset and consistent throughout its course, with rainfall estimated to reach 106 percent of the long-period average, a level that classifies it as above normal.

The next few days are expected to bring more intense weather activity. Light to moderate rainfall is likely to continue on June 18 and 19, while widespread rainfall is expected from June 20 through 24. The heaviest spells are forecast for June 22 and 23. A brief rise in temperatures by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius over the next 48 hours is anticipated, followed by a sharper drop of 3 to 4 degrees as cloud cover and precipitation increase.

Farmers and district administrations have been advised to prepare for potential flash floods, landslides, and urban flooding, particularly in vulnerable areas like Mandi, Kullu, Solan, Kangra, and Lahaul-Spiti. While the early onset of monsoon promises to replenish water reserves and support kharif sowing, much will depend on whether the rainfall remains well-distributed and manageable through the season.

Himachalscape bureau

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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

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