Himachal Pradesh 87% Rainfall deficit as February turns one of the driest in years
Shimla, Feb 28,
Among the colder regions, Tabo in Lahaul-Spiti recorded a minimum temperature of minus 2.7°C, followed by Kukumseri at minus 1.9°C. Popular tourist destination Manali registered 4°C, while Bhuntar stood at 7.2°C and Solan at 7.5°C.
Higher temperatures were recorded in mid and lower hills, with Shimla and Dalhousie at 9°C each. Dharamshala reported 10.5°C, while Jubbarhatti airport and Mandi both recorded 10°C. Bilaspur saw 11°C, Kangra 11.7°C, and Nahan and Palampur 12°C each.
IMD Forecast: Western disturbance ahead
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast mainly dry weather across the State for the next two days. However, a fresh western disturbance is expected to become active around March 2, potentially bringing light rain and snowfall, particularly in higher reaches.
Despite the expected system, temperatures are likely to remain above normal, indicating that any precipitation may be short-lived and insufficient to offset the ongoing deficit.
Also read:Unusual winter dryness continues in Himachal, IMD reports above-normal night temperatures
87% rainfall deficit raises alarm bells
The bigger concern lies in the scale of the dry spell. Between February 1 and February 27, Himachal Pradesh recorded just 14.7 mm of rainfall against the normal average of 91.9 mm—an alarming deficit of 87 percent.
Solan district emerged as the driest, receiving barely 3 mm of precipitation during the first three weeks of the month.
The lack of snowfall has hit key winter tourism hubs such as Shimla, Manali, and Dalhousie, where seasonal visitor inflow depends heavily on fresh snow. Hoteliers and local stakeholders are already reporting subdued tourist activity compared to previous winters.
Beyond tourism, the prolonged dry conditions have triggered concerns over water availability and agricultural impact in the coming months. Reduced snow accumulation in higher reaches could directly affect stream flows and irrigation cycles as the summer season approaches.
With March beginning on a dry note and only a weak weather system on the horizon, Himachal Pradesh appears set to enter the pre-summer phase with a worrying precipitation deficit—raising fresh questions on climate variability and preparedness at the state level.
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.
