Shimla, July 15
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that the first leg of the South West Monsoon in Himachal Pradesh has been deficient by 35%, primarily attributed to the El Niño effect. Since the onset of the monsoon on June 27, the state has received only 132 mm of rainfall, compared to the normal 203 mm, indicating a significant shortfall.
IMD data reveals that between June 27 and July 14, several districts experienced severe rainfall deficiencies: Lahaul Spiti by 67%, Sirmaur by 57%, Una by 54%, Kinnaur by 48%, and Chamba by 41%. All districts recorded below-normal rainfall during this period.
From July 7, Himachal Pradesh has seen very little rainfall, with monsoon activity almost dormant in most districts over the past week. Rainfall was 78% below normal, resulting in humid and heatwave conditions, particularly in the mid and plain regions of the state.
The past week has been particularly dry, with Lahaul Spiti receiving no rain (100% deficient), Una at 97% deficient, Mandi at 84%, Chamba at 81%, Bilaspur at 80%, Kangra at 79%, and Kullu at 74%. Statewide, only 12.6 mm of rainfall was recorded, compared to the normal 58.6 mm. IMD forecasts suggest that dry weather conditions may persist for the next two days.
In the last 24 hours, Dalhousie in Chamba received 3 mm of rain, Kalpa in Kinnaur recorded 0.8 mm, and Nahan received 0.5 mm.
IMD predicts a potential revival of the monsoon after July 17, with moderate to heavy rainfall expected at a few locations.
Meanwhile, the dormant monsoon conditions have caused temperatures to rise significantly. Una recorded a maximum temperature of 36.8 degrees Celsius, 3.8 degrees above normal, while Shimla’s temperature increased to 26.1 degrees Celsius, 3 degrees above normal.
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