Shimla (Rajeev Sharma): Himachal Pradesh is set to witness a temporary reduction in rainfall over the coming days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting only scattered light showers until the middle of the week. The respite comes after an active spell of monsoon showers that pushed the state’s rainfall figures well above the seasonal average.
The weather office has not issued any rain alert for any district between July 13 and July 16, indicating relatively stable conditions across most regions. Skies are expected to remain partly cloudy, while isolated areas may receive brief spells of light rain.
Meteorologists said the present decline in rainfall is due to weakening monsoon conditions over the western Himalayan region. The monsoon trough has shifted away from the state, reducing the moisture influx, while the absence of any strong Western Disturbance has further limited rainfall activity.
However, the lull is not expected to last long. The IMD has projected that a fresh Western Disturbance is likely to influence the region from July 17, which could revive monsoon activity across Himachal Pradesh. Rainfall is expected to increase gradually, with more widespread showers anticipated between July 17 and July 24.
Despite the ongoing dry spell, rainfall statistics for July continue to reflect a strong monsoon season. Between July 1 and July 12, Himachal Pradesh recorded nearly 120 mm of rainfall, considerably higher than the normal average of around 86 mm for the same period. This translates into an excess of approximately 40 per cent.
Officials noted that the distribution of rainfall has varied across districts. While several regions received above-normal precipitation, Hamirpur and Mandi remained among the few districts that recorded rainfall below their seasonal averages.
Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious, especially in vulnerable hill areas. Although rainfall has reduced temporarily, waterlogged slopes and loose soil could still pose a risk of landslides, particularly if fresh spells of rain return later this week.
Weather experts have advised tourists and local residents to continue monitoring official forecasts before planning travel in the hill state, as monsoon conditions can change rapidly with the arrival of new weather systems.
