Shimla, June 2 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh recorded the 39th lowest pre-monsoon rainfall this year, receiving just 175 mm of cumulative rainfall between March and May—27 per cent below the normal average of 240.7 mm—according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

This reflects a concerning trend of deficient rainfall, especially in the higher reaches of the state.

Interestingly, rainfall patterns varied significantly across regions. While five districts, including Chamba (-47%), Lahaul-Spiti (-51%), Kinnaur (-26%), Kangra (-12%), and Hamirpur (-13%), recorded deficient rainfall, seven districts received normal to excess rain.

Notably, Sirmaur in the southern part of the state registered a staggering 73 pc surplus with 217.6 mm of rainfall against the normal 126.1 mm. Solan also saw a sharp rise with 42 pc excess rainfall, while Kullu, Shimla, Mandi, Bilaspur, and Una hovered around normal.

A regional pattern is evident: lower hill districts such as Sirmaur, Solan, and Bilaspur received excess rainfall; middle hills recorded normal precipitation, while the higher reaches, including Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur, witnessed deficient rainfall.

For instance, Lahaul-Spiti had only 135.7 mm of rainfall compared to the normal 279 mm, marking a 53 pc shortfall.

The month of May showed almost normal rainfall at the state level, with only a (-) one pc departure 62 mm against the normal 63 mm. However, district-level figures reveal extreme variations.

Sirmaur district experienced a massive 368 pc excess rainfall in May, receiving 156.6 mm against its normal of 42.5 mm. In stark contrast, Kinnaur received only 18.6 mm, which is 68 pc below its normal of 57.4 mm.

Heavy rain and isolated hailstorms were also reported on some days, adding to the variability.

The IMD data underscores the need for localised climate strategies, as uniform policies may not suffice for such diverse rainfall patterns across Himachal Pradesh.

UNI ML ARN