Himachal Pradesh Grapples with Significant Rainfall Shortfall and Warming Trends
Himachal Pradesh has experienced a stark rainfall deficit of 79% during the first 20 days of February 2024, according to meteorological data. The state recorded an average rainfall of just 14.4 mm, significantly below the normal expectation of 68.7 mm for this period. This alarming shortfall highlights growing concerns over weather patterns in the region.
Regional Rainfall Variations Reveal Widespread Dryness
Among the districts, Kullu reported the highest rainfall at 27.7 mm, yet this was still 60% less than its normal 69.7 mm. In contrast, Solan faced the most severe conditions with only 3 mm of rainfall, marking a drastic 94% drop from the usual 49.2 mm. The overall rainfall from January 1 to February 20 stood at 101.9 mm, which is 34% below the normal 154 mm, as confirmed by the Meteorological Centre in Shimla.
Temperature Rise Adds to Weather Anomalies
Accompanying the rainfall deficit, Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a gradual increase in both minimum and maximum temperatures. On a recent Friday, Keylong in Lahaul-Spiti recorded the lowest minimum temperature of -3.7 degrees Celsius, which was 3.3 degrees above normal. Other key locations also showed above-normal readings:
- Shimla: 7.4 degrees Celsius, 3.2 degrees above normal
- Manali: 3.9 degrees Celsius, 3.1 degrees above normal
- Dharamshala: 9.2 degrees Celsius, 1.5 degrees above normal
- Palampur: 8.5 degrees Celsius, 1.8 degrees above normal
Una emerged as the warmest spot with a maximum temperature of 29 degrees Celsius, followed by Neri at 27.9 degrees Celsius and other areas like Mandi and Kangra recording highs in the mid-20s.
Clear Skies Forecast Amid Ongoing Challenges
The weather department has predicted clear skies across Himachal Pradesh until February 28, offering some respite but also raising questions about prolonged dry conditions. This forecast comes amidst other weather-related incidents that have compounded the state's troubles.
Forest Fire and Landslide Incidents Disrupt Normal Life
In Kullu, a forest fire that ignited on a mountain near Bhuntar was successfully extinguished by forest department staff with local assistance. Officials noted that the fire originated from pastureland burning and spread to nearby forests. This month alone, Kullu has witnessed 21 fire incidents, affecting 635 hectares of land and causing an estimated loss of around Rs 4.5 lakh.
Additionally, a landslide near Kharo Bridge in Kinnaur district blocked National Highway 5, disrupting connectivity to Pooh, Kaza, and Spiti for approximately two-and-a-half hours. The Border Roads Organisation cleared the debris, reopening the highway for light vehicles by 6:30 PM.
These events underscore the multifaceted impact of changing weather patterns in Himachal Pradesh, from agricultural and environmental concerns to infrastructure disruptions, calling for heightened awareness and preparedness in the region.
