Himachal Pradesh is experiencing lower-than-normal winter rainfall and snowfall this season, with total precipitation from January 1 to February 16 falling short across most districts.
Latest seasonal figures indicate the State received 101.9 mm of rainfall against the normal 139.2 mm, representing a 27% deficit during the current winter period.
Several key districts reported notable shortfalls. Kinnaur recorded 67.1 mm compared to the usual 162.2 mm, a 59% deficit, while Chamba logged 109.4 mm versus 198.9 mm, reflecting a 45% drop. Shimla registered 73.2 mm against a normal of 104 mm (30% deficit), and Kangra, Lahaul & Spiti, and Kullu also remained below average by 24%, 26%, and 10% respectively.
On the other hand, a few districts experienced higher-than-average precipitation. Una received 111.8 mm against 74.2 mm, marking a 51% surplus, while Solan saw rainfall 27% above normal. Hamirpur and Bilaspur also recorded slightly higher-than-normal rainfall.
Despite occasional western disturbances in January, snowfall in high-altitude regions stayed below expected levels. The shortfall in tribal and mid-hill districts has raised concerns about reduced snow cover, which is crucial for water resources, agriculture, and hydropower production during the summer months.
Meteorologists have confirmed that overall winter precipitation remains below average, indicating a relatively mild and subdued winter season across the hill State.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
