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Himachal rainfall deficit deepens in 2026, Temperatures stay above normal
Shimla, Feb 19,
Himachal Pradesh is heading into a drier and warmer winter phase, with a sharp rainfall deficit and above-normal temperatures easing the cold wave across the state—raising concerns for tourism and water availability.
Data from the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, shows that February rainfall (February 1–19) has recorded a massive 78% deficit, with the state receiving just 14.4 mm against a normal of 64.1 mm monthly.
This significant shortfall has left most districts far below their usual precipitation levels.
The deficit is widespread and severe:
- Solan (-93%), Sirmaur (-92%), and Una (-92%) recorded the steepest shortfall
- Bilaspur (-89%), Kangra (-86%), and Chamba (-83%) also saw major declines
Even relatively better-performing districts like Kullu (-57%) and Mandi (-62%) remained well below normal
The trend continues across the broader winter season. From January 1 to February 19, the state has recorded a 32% rainfall deficit, receiving 101.9 mm against a normal of 149.4 mm seasonal.
Seasonal data highlights persistent gaps:
- Kinnaur (-61%), Chamba (-49%), and Shimla (-34%) remain significantly below normal
- Kangra (-29%) and Lahaul & Spiti (-30%) also report notable shortfall
- Only Solan (+15%) and Una (+37%) have recorded excess seasonal rainfall
Despite occasional cloud cover and light drizzle in isolated areas, the absence of strong western disturbances has limited both rainfall and snowfall activity. As a result, minimum temperatures have stayed 2–3°C above normal in many parts, effectively weakening the cold wave conditions.
The lack of significant snowfall in key tourist destinations such as Shimla and Manali is already being felt, with stakeholders closely watching the evolving weather pattern. Reduced snow cover at this stage of winter could also impact water sources and agricultural cycles in the coming months.
With the weather department forecasting a prolonged dry spell of 9–10 days ahead, Himachal’s winter this year appears increasingly defined by rainfall deficit and milder temperatures, rather than the intense cold and snowfall typically associated with the season.
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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.
