274% more rain than normal in Himachal in 7 days, winter deficit 32%

Subhash Rajta

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Shimla, February 6

The week-long precipitation has reduced the winter rain deficit in the state from nearly 100 per cent to 32 per cent. Starting January 31, the state recorded 304 per cent more than normal precipitation over the past seven days. “The precipitation has been quite intense and widespread over the past one week. It has covered much of the rain deficit in the state,” said Surender Paul, Director, Meteorological Centre, Shimla. All districts, except Kinnaur (32 per cent), saw a deviation of over 100 per cent from normal rainfall over the past seven days; Mandi district recoded the highest deviation of 820 per cent, followed by Sirmaur (650 per cent) and Bilaspur (637 per cent).

The rain deficit until January 30 was over 99 per cent and the state was heading towards having the driest January in the past 123 years. The precipitation on January 31, however, reduced the deficit for the month to 92 per cent. Eventually, it turned out to be the third driest January in the past 123 years, behind 1966 (deficit of minus 99.6 per cent) and 2007 (deficit of minus 98.5). Against normal rainfall of 85.3 mm, January received just 6.8 mm precipitation.

“The combination of Western Disturbances and easterly winds caused this widespread precipitation. There’s a probability of a couple of more spells

later this month,” the Direactor said.

For farmers and fruit growers, rain and snow have come as a blessing. They were under tremendous stress due to the dry spell. “For the apple growers, rain and snow have come at the right time. It will help apple plants get the required chilling hours,” said DP Sharma, Head, Department of Fruit Sciences, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forest, Nauni.

The growers are also a relieved lot, especially who have orchards at low elevations. “Had it not rained for a few more days, we would have suffered huge losses. Due to the dry spell and high temperatures, there were signs of plants coming out of dormancy early. The rain and low temperatures will suppress sprouting,” said Kapur Jistu, an orchardist of the Kotgarh region.