Himachal: Above-normal rainfall expected this monsoon

Himachal is likely to receive more than normal rainfall this monsoon. As per the weather department, the probability of above normal rainfall is 32 per cent, while the probability of deficient and below normal precipitation is two and eight per cent, respectively. The normal monsoon rainfall in the state is 734.4 mm.

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Besides, monsoon can hit the state about six-seven days before the normal arrival date of June 25. “Monsoon has hit Kerala eight days ahead of the normal arrival date. So, we are expecting the monsoon arrival a little early in the state this time,” said an official from the weather department.

In the last three years, monsoon has arrived in the state once on the normal date and twice later than the normal arrival date. In 2021, though, monsoon hit the state on June 13, much earlier than the normal date.

As for the month of June, the rainfall is likely to be above normal over most parts of the state. The normal rainfall for the month of June in the state is 101.1 mm. Besides, the state is likely to see normal to below-normal heat wave days in most areas in this month.

Maximum temperatures are likely to be above normal over many parts of the state, except in some parts of high hills and adjoining mid hills where maximum temperatures are likely to be normal. Minimum temperatures are likely to be above normal across most parts of state in June.

The above-normal rainfall will be beneficial for horticulture, agriculture and water resources but it also carries the risks such as flooding, landslides and disruption to public services like transportation, power, water supply, etc.