Drought conditions worsen as temperatures soar past 35 degrees in Hamirpur

Shimla (The Uttam Hindu): Himachal Pradesh has experienced a significant drop in rainfall this October, marking the driest month in four years, with no rain expected in the first week of November. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts clear weather for the upcoming week. If the dry conditions persist, the state may face drought-like situations due to the prolonged lack of precipitation. Typically, the state averages 25.1 mm of rainfall from October 1 to 31, but this year has only recorded a mere 0.7 mm.

The IMD reports that six districts—Chamba, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Solan, Sirmaur, and Kullu—have not received any rainfall at all. Una recorded the highest rainfall at 8.6 mm, which is still 54% below normal levels. Meanwhile, Kangra saw just 1.5 mm, Lahaul Spiti received 0.1 mm, and Mandi recorded 3.4 mm throughout the month. Overall, the state has experienced 19% less rainfall than normal during the monsoon season, and even in the post-monsoon phase, the mountains remain dry.

The absence of rain poses a serious threat to agriculture and horticulture, as the decreasing water levels in natural sources hinder farmers from sowing wheat. The Meteorological Department predicts clear weather until November 7, with the lack of rain and snowfall contributing to unseasonably high temperatures. This has resulted in an unusual warmth for November, with many areas experiencing temperatures 4 to 5 degrees above average. In Una, for example, the temperature has soared to 35.3 degrees Celsius.