Himachal Monsoon: Kullu, Shimla, Solan, Una record over 100% excess rain in August
Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Shimla, Aug 26,
Himachal Pradesh has experienced an unusually wet August, with four districts recording more than double their normal rainfall. According to official data, Kullu, Shimla, Solan, and Una witnessed departures exceeding 100 percent from their long-term averages between August 1 and 26, raising concerns of floods, landslides, and crop damage in vulnerable regions. Even Bilalspur has touhed 99 excessive rainfall, as per data.
Kullu received 408.7 mm of rain against the normal 160.4 mm, marking a staggering 155 percent excess—the highest in the state. Una followed with 755.6 mm rainfall, 128 percent above its usual average of 330.8 mm. Solan too saw 552.6 mm, 117 percent higher than the norm, while Shimla registered 368.5 mm against 173.5 mm, showing an excess of 112 percent.
Other districts such as Bilaspur (99 percent), Mandi (68 percent), Chamba (74 percent), and Hamirpur (61 percent) also recorded heavy rain, though within a lower range. Kangra, often one of the wettest districts, received 713.8 mm but stood only 26 percent above normal. Lahaul and Spiti remained largely dry, with rainfall close to its long-term average.
Seasonal data from June 1 to August 26 highlights a similar trend of an active monsoon. Shimla showed an 85 percent excess, Kullu 77 percent, Una 68 percent, Mandi 62 percent, and Solan 48 percent above seasonal norms. Overall, Himachal Pradesh recorded 29 percent higher rainfall than normal during this monsoon period.
While the surplus is beneficial for water reservoirs and hydropower, experts warn that the excessive rain in Una, Kullu, Solan, and Shimla may heighten the risk of flash floods, landslides, and road blockages. Farmers too are facing uncertainty, as heavy downpours could damage standing crops, especially maize and seasonal vegetables.
The continuing monsoon activity underlines the state’s fragile ecological balance, with uneven rainfall distribution leaving some districts flooded while others remain dry.
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