Himachal Pradesh faces driest January in 123 years, IMD reports historic low rain/snow 

Himachal Pradesh faces driest January in 123 years, IMD reports historic low rain/snow 

Shimla, Jan 18,

In a recent weather update, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has revealed that Himachal Pradesh is currently facing its driest January as per data available since 1901. According to IMD records, previous to this, January 1996 held the record for being the driest January in Himachal Pradesh, with a staggering 99.6% deficiency in precipitation. Surprisingly, as of January 18, 2024, the current year has surpassed that record with a remarkable 99.7% precipitation deficiency.

The dry spell has persisted throughout the month, with only isolated instances of light to moderate precipitation providing relief. The past week has seen predominantly dry weather across the state, with a slight change on January 17, 2024, when some areas experienced light to moderate precipitation. However, this was not enough to alleviate the severe dry conditions persisting in the region.

The cumulative precipitation received in the state for the month of January 2024, up until January 18, is a mere 0.1, in stark contrast to the normal precipitation of 43.1. This represents a departure of -99.7%, highlighting the severity of the drought-like conditions prevailing in the region.

Dense fog, cold wave, and ground frost conditions have been reported in isolated places, particularly in the districts of Una, Kangra, Bilaspur, and Mandi. These conditions have added to the challenges faced by residents and agricultural activities.

In this period since 1901, the top ten years with precipitation recorded lowest remained, 2007 with minus 98.5 percent, in 1902 minus 92.4, 1986 witnessed 91.4 percent, in 2018 it was minus 90.5, in 1916 it was minus 87.8, in 1936 was minus 86.5  percent, 1963 and in 1998 it was minus 83.5, and in 1914 minus 81.4 percent lesser precipitation was recorded.

Farmers, water resources, and the general population are facing the brunt of this unprecedented dry spell. Water scarcity concerns are mounting, and agricultural activities are being significantly impacted. The state authorities are closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary measures to address the challenges posed by the exceptionally dry weather.

Dry weather conditions have also delayed fieldwork in the orchards, as farmers are not planting new saplings and plants due to insufficient moisture in the soil. Pruning works and making beds in orchards are also delayed due to dusty soil and a lack of moisture. Farmers or apple growers are awaiting rain or snowfall for fertilization.

As Himachal Pradesh grapples with this historic dry spell, residents are urged to exercise caution and adhere to water conservation measures.

Team Himachal Scape

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