From Torrential rains, to early snow: Himachal faces rare September weather extremes
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Shimla, Sept 12,
Instead of retreating this September Monsoon in Himachal Pradesh has taken a U-Turn, this year. Seemingly this September or to say the month before Autumn break-out is turning to become the wettest of all months.
In just 12 days, Kullu district was hit the hardest. So far, it has received 363 per cent more rainfall than normal, making it the wettest part of Himachal in September. Roads were washed away, landslides blocked highways, and the Beas river kept swelling, putting villages and apple orchards at risk.
Shimla also reported unusually heavy rain, with 105 per cent above normal. Other districts such as Bilaspur, Mandi, and Solan recorded 72 per cent excess, while Una (68%) and Hamirpur (51%) also remained far wetter than their usual averages. Even Chamba (30%) and Kinnaur (33%) saw extra rain. Kangra came closer to normal, with just 13 per cent excess. The only exception was Lahaul-Spiti, which received 14 per cent less rainfall, keeping its cold desert climate largely dry.
Also read:Himachal rainfall soars 667% higher than normal on Single day
Adding to this rare weather, snowfall arrived early in the higher reaches. Areas like Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La, and parts of Lahaul-Spiti were covered in fresh snow, weeks ahead of the usual winter schedule. This surprised tourists but also created fresh travel hurdles, as mountain passes were blocked sooner than expected.
Experts believe this unusual September rain is the result of western disturbances interacting with monsoon winds. Climate change is also playing a role by making rainfall patterns more extreme and unpredictable.
For locals, this September will be remembered as a month when the rains refused to leave and snow came too soon. Farmers, apple growers, and residents are facing difficulties, while scientists warn that such events could become more common in the coming years if global warming continues.
About the Author
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.
