Himachal Pradesh News
Himachal Pradesh Records 45% Winter Rainfall Deficit, Among Lowest Since 1901
The winter of 2026 has left Himachal Pradesh grappling with a significant rainfall shortfall. Between January 1 and February 28, the state received just 103.2 mm of rainfall, nearly 45% below the seasonal average of 187.1 mm.
The winter of 2026 has left Himachal Pradesh grappling with a significant rainfall shortfall. Between January 1 and February 28, the state received just 103.2 mm of rainfall, nearly 45% below the seasonal average of 187.1 mm.
This makes it the 22nd lowest winter rainfall recorded in the state since 1901 — a worrying statistic for a region heavily dependent on winter precipitation for agriculture, water reserves, and snowfall-driven tourism.
For perspective, the lowest-ever winter rainfall in Himachal was recorded in 1902 at just 33.6 mm, while the wettest winter came in 1954 with a massive 468.3 mm.
February Was Exceptionally Dry
According to the State Meteorological Centre, February saw an alarming 85% rainfall deficit.
- Actual rainfall: 15.7 mm
- Normal rainfall: 101.8 mm
All 12 districts experienced deficient rainfall during February, as dry weather conditions dominated the month.
This sharp dip in precipitation played a major role in dragging down the overall winter rainfall numbers.
January Offered Brief Relief
January painted a slightly better picture. The state recorded a 4% surplus, receiving 88.8 mm against the normal 85.3 mm.
Except for Kinnaur, which reported a deficit, most districts received normal to above-normal rainfall during January. However, the gains from January were not enough to offset February’s severe dryness.
District-Wise Rainfall Deficit: Who Was Hit Hardest?
The impact of the rainfall shortfall varied across districts:
- Kinnaur – 67% deficit (68.2 mm vs 206 mm normal)
- Chamba – 59% deficit (110.7 mm vs 273.1 mm)
- Shimla – 47% deficit (74.4 mm vs 139.7 mm)
- Lahaul & Spiti – 44% deficit (127.1 mm vs 225.7 mm)
- Kangra – 43% deficit (92.9 mm vs 163.8 mm)
- Kullu – 34% deficit
- Mandi – 27% deficit
- Sirmaur – 27% deficit
- Bilaspur – 22% deficit
- Hamirpur – 17% deficit
- Solan – 5% deficit
Interestingly, Una was the only district to record surplus rainfall, receiving 14% above normal levels.
What This Means for the State
Winter rainfall in Himachal is crucial. It supports:
- Rabi crops and orchards
- Replenishment of water reservoirs
- Snow accumulation in higher altitudes
- Summer river flows
A sustained rainfall deficit could affect agriculture, hydropower generation, and even drinking water supply in the coming months. Lower snowfall in hill districts may also impact tourism and glacier health over time.
March Outlook: More Dry Days Ahead?
The weather outlook for March doesn’t offer much optimism. Forecast models suggest a 55% probability of below-normal rainfall in the coming weeks.
If this trend continues, Himachal may enter the pre-monsoon period with already stressed water reserves.
A Winter to Remember — For the Wrong Reasons
While Himachal Pradesh has witnessed extreme winters in the past, the 2026 season stands out for its dryness. With climate variability becoming more visible each year, such rainfall fluctuations raise important questions about long-term water security in the Himalayan region.
For now, all eyes remain on March skies — and hopes for some much-needed rain.
