Himachal Pradesh Faces Severe Rainfall Deficit, February Sees 64% Less Rainfall
"Thick smoke billows into the sky as a major forest fire rages near Kelvi village in Theog, Shimla district, on Friday."
Shimla, Feb. 15 – Himachal Pradesh is experiencing an unusually dry spell this February, with the state recording a significant rainfall shortfall of 64% so far. From February 1 to 14, the state has only received 16.3 mm of precipitation, a stark contrast to the normal expected rainfall of 45 mm for this period.
All districts in the state have witnessed a considerable decrease in rainfall, with lower regions bearing the brunt of the dry conditions. Sirmaur district is facing the most extreme shortfall, with a staggering 97% deficit in rainfall. Other areas, including Bilaspur (87% shortfall), Kinnaur (85%), Una (80%), and Hamirpur (80%), have also experienced substantial reductions in rainfall this month.
On the other hand, Kullu has seen a relatively moderate shortfall of 32%, while Mandi has recorded a 44% deficit. Shimla, the state capital, has faced a 77% reduction in rainfall, and Chamba has reported a 48% decrease in precipitation.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted mostly dry weather across Himachal Pradesh until February 18. However, light rain or snowfall is expected in certain high-altitude areas, including parts of Chamba, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti districts, on February 15. The weather department has also predicted light rain and snowfall across the state on February 19 and 20.
In terms of temperature, the state has witnessed a drop in minimum temperatures, which have fallen by 2-3 degrees in the past 24 hours. The temperatures remain below normal in many areas, particularly in the plains and lower hills, where the minimum temperatures are ranging between 2-6 degrees. Mid-hill regions have recorded near-normal minimum temperatures, ranging from 4-7 degrees. Interestingly, the high hill areas are experiencing slightly warmer minimum temperatures, which are 2-3 degrees above the usual range, with temperatures ranging from -8 to -3 degrees.
Maximum temperatures, on the other hand, have remained higher than usual in both the plains (21-24 degrees) and mid-hill regions (15-21 degrees), contributing to the overall warm and dry conditions across the state.
The continued dry weather and significant rainfall deficit are raising concerns for agricultural activities and water supply in the region. Experts suggest that these conditions could lead to long-term impacts if they persist through the upcoming months.
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