Himachal: November proved to be the third driest month in 100 years
Himachal Pradesh: Himachal Pradesh received the third lowest rainfall this November in the last 124 years, starting from 1901. Against the normal rainfall of 19.7 mm, the state recorded just 0.2 mm of rainfall, which is minus 99 per cent of the normal rainfall for November. Except for Lahaul and Spiti district, which received 0.9 mm of rainfall, all the other 11 districts remained completely dry this month. In the last 14 years, since 2010, November has received below normal rainfall on eleven occasions. The state received above normal rainfall for three consecutive years from 2018-2020. Apart from that, the rainfall has been less. In 2016, the month of November received no rainfall at all – this is the only year in the last 14 years when November recorded less rainfall than this November.
Incidentally, the month of October was also rain deficient. It recorded minus 97 per cent of the normal rainfall. With two consecutive months of almost dry weather, the dry weather has become a cause of concern especially for farmers. The drought has delayed wheat sowing in many areas and according to experts, late sowing will affect the overall quality as well as quantity of the produce. Moreover, the drought has also started affecting drinking water supply schemes, leading to depletion of water levels. Meanwhile, light rain and snowfall is expected in Lahaul and Spiti and higher reaches of Chamba, Kinnaur, Kangra, Mandi and Kullu districts till December 3. The weather is likely to remain dry in plains and lower hill areas for the next six-seven days.
