Shimla: With pre-monsoon showers persisting across Himachal Pradesh, the southwest monsoon is anticipated to enter the hill state anytime after June 20, as per the meteorological centre in Shimla. Shobhit Katiyar, Director of the meteorological centre, stated that a western disturbance has been active over the state since June 11, leading to widespread rainfall. He highlighted that the monsoon typically reaches Himachal Pradesh around June 20 and covers the entire state by June 25.
Expected Rainfall Patterns
While Himachal normally receives approximately 730 mm of rainfall during the monsoon season, this year the state is likely to experience below-average precipitation due to the impact of El Niño and other unfavourable global weather parameters. However, higher reaches of Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti districts are expected to receive above-normal rainfall.
Yellow Alert Issued
The weather department has forecast light to moderate rainfall at several locations and snowfall in some higher-altitude areas until June 19. A yellow alert has also been issued for Sunday, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds with speeds ranging between 30 and 50 kmph at isolated spots in Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla districts.
On Saturday, light to moderate rain was reported across most parts of the state, with isolated heavy rainfall. Kangra recorded the highest rainfall at 27.6 mm, followed by Hamirpur, Solan, Una, and Chamba. Keylong remained the coldest place at 6.3°C, while Paonta Sahib recorded the highest temperature at 34°C.
