‘Wetter-Than-Usual’ May: Himachal records 18% more rainfall

Shimla, May 13,

The first fortnight of May has brought welcome relief from the early summer heat in Himachal Pradesh, with cooler-than-usual temperatures and above-average rainfall rejuvenating the hill state. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Himachal received 18 per cent more rainfall than the seasonal norm during this period.

From May 1 to 13, the state recorded an average of 34.1 mm of rainfall compared to the normal 28.9 mm. Wet weather was reported on seven to eight days, contributing to a pleasant and extended spring-like feel across much of the region.

Rainfall distribution shows stark contrasts
While the overall picture indicates a wetter-than-usual start to May, the rainfall distribution has been uneven across districts.
Sirmaur led the charts with an average rainfall of 75.9 mm—an astonishing 291 per cent above normal—followed by Solan at 70.4 mm (216 per cent above), Bilaspur at 47.7 mm (208 per cent above), and Hamirpur at 47 mm (157 per cent above normal).

In contrast, the high-altitude tribal districts remained considerably dry. Kinnaur recorded just 5.7 mm of rainfall, 81 per cent below normal. Lahaul-Spiti and Kullu fared slightly better but still remained deficient, with 17.5 mm (36 per cent below) and 21.3 mm (35 per cent below normal), respectively.

This rainfall imbalance highlights a growing concern for agricultural planning and water availability in the higher Himalayan zones. Experts believe this warrants close observation in the coming weeks, particularly as the sowing season approaches.

Tourism likely to get a boost amid ideal weather
For the state’s tourism sector, the shift in weather has been timely. Cooler temperatures and scenic rain-washed landscapes have added to the charm of destinations like Shimla, Manali, and Dalhousie.

Manali recorded a minimum temperature of 8.9°C on Tuesday—2 to 3 degrees below average—providing a cool and comfortable environment for vacationers. Several hill spots have experienced similar dips in temperature, encouraging a steady inflow of tourists, particularly as summer vacations begin in the plains of Northern India.

Over the past 24 hours, light rain and thunderstorms were observed in parts of Shimla, Chamba, Kullu, and Mandi. The IMD has cautioned tourists and locals to remain vigilant in landslide-prone areas due to occasional rain activity in the region.

With moderate showers and mild temperatures forecasted to continue, Himachal Pradesh is poised to remain a favoured destination through the rest of May. However, authorities are closely watching regional climatic trends, especially in the high-altitude zones, where rainfall shortfall could have longer-term implications for agriculture and water security.

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Himachalscape bureau

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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.

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Himachalscape bureau

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.