Himachal Pradesh records 41st lowest monsoon rainfall since 1901

Himachal Pradesh recorded its 41st lowest monsoon rainfall since 1901, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The state received 652.3 mm of rain during the monsoon season, which is 11 percent below the normal level of 734.4 mm.

The monsoon arrived in the state on June 30, seven days later than the usual June 25 arrival date, and retreated on a Saturday, later than the typical September 25 date. While several districts such as Kinnaur, Una, Bilaspur, Kullu, Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Solan experienced normal rainfall, others saw significant deficits.

Lahaul-Spiti recorded the lowest rainfall at 27.8 mm, representing a 76 percent deficit. In contrast, Kangra district saw the highest rainfall at 658.0 mm. In August, the state recorded 212.5 mm of rain against a normal of 256.8 mm.