Shimla (Rajeev Sharma): Himachal Pradesh is set for a short spell of relatively dry weather, with rainfall activity expected to remain subdued across the state for the next 72 hours. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast mainly clear skies, with partly cloudy conditions possible at some places.
The change follows a shift in the position of the monsoon trough, which is currently lying away from Himachal Pradesh. There is also no active Western Disturbance influencing the state at present, reducing the chances of widespread rain in the immediate future.
The IMD said the monsoon trough is extending from Jammu through Dehradun and Varanasi towards a low-pressure area situated over Jharkhand. With the rain-producing system positioned farther east, Himachal is unlikely to see significant precipitation during the next few days.
A monsoon trough is a broad belt of low atmospheric pressure that helps determine the distribution of monsoon rainfall across the country. Its position and strength often influence which regions receive heavier or more frequent showers.
Temperatures May Climb by 3°C
The pause in rainfall is likely to be accompanied by a rise in daytime temperatures. Maximum temperatures could increase by around 2 to 3 degrees Celsius over the coming three to four days, particularly in the lower hills and plain areas.
Several parts of Himachal are already experiencing temperatures above their normal levels. Kangra recorded a maximum of 33.6°C, which was 5.3 degrees higher than the seasonal average.
Other locations have also reported temperatures between 2 and 3 degrees above normal. With skies expected to remain largely clear, the mercury could rise further, making afternoons warmer than usual in the lower-altitude belt.
State Records 8% Rainfall Deficit
The state has received 8 per cent less rainfall than normal so far during the ongoing monsoon season. The latest dry phase could add to the uneven distribution of rainfall across different parts of Himachal Pradesh.
However, the weather situation may begin to change towards the end of the week.
Rain Expected to Return From August 29
According to the forecast, parts of Himachal Pradesh could receive light to moderate rainfall between August 29 and 31. Some areas may also experience brief spells of drizzle during this period.
Until then, residents can expect predominantly dry conditions, with clear or partly cloudy skies across most districts. The combination of reduced rainfall and rising temperatures is likely to make the weather noticeably warmer, especially across the plains and lower reaches of the state.
