The southwest monsoon, which arrived in Himachal Pradesh on June 27, is now on the verge of departing, with a full withdrawal expected in the next one to two days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). A senior weather scientist, Sandeep Kumar Sharma, confirmed the upcoming withdrawal on Wednesday.
18% Rain Deficit but Season Considered Normal
Despite an 18% deficit in overall rainfall, Sharma explained that the monsoon season is still categorized as normal for Himachal Pradesh. “The districts of Shimla, Sirmaur, Kullu, Mandi, Bilaspur, and Kangra saw normal rainfall, while other regions like Chamba, Hamirpur, Solan, Una, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti experienced below-normal precipitation,” Sharma noted. Shimla recorded 15% above-normal rainfall, while Lahaul-Spiti had the highest deficit at 69%.
Monthly Breakdown of Rainfall
The IMD further detailed the month-by-month distribution of rainfall:
- June saw a 54% deficit.
- July had a 57% rainfall shortfall.
- August was nearly normal with only 5% less rainfall than usual.
- September recorded 4% above-normal rainfall.
Sharma concluded that these fluctuations balanced out, classifying the overall monsoon season as normal.
Weather Forecast and Rising Temperatures
Looking ahead, Sharma forecasted some rainfall for high-altitude regions like Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti between October 5 and 8. However, for most parts of Himachal, the weather is expected to remain stable over the next five days. Additionally, temperatures in the plains are likely to rise by 2-3 degrees Celsius, with daytime temperatures across the state expected to stay 2-3 degrees above normal.
