Shimla: After witnessing intense rainfall over the past few weeks, Himachal Pradesh is expected to experience relatively calmer weather over the next several days as monsoon activity temporarily weakens across the state.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), only isolated light showers are likely in a few areas during the next five days. No rain warnings have been issued for any district from July 13 to July 16, indicating a brief pause in widespread precipitation.
Most parts of the hill state are expected to witness clear to partly cloudy skies, with occasional drizzle in select locations. Weather experts, however, believe the dry spell will be short-lived.
Fresh weather system expected after July 17
Meteorologists have forecast that a fresh Western Disturbance is likely to influence the region from July 17, which could revive monsoon activity across Himachal Pradesh. Rainfall is expected to increase gradually, with widespread showers likely between July 17 and July 24.
Officials said the upcoming weather system may once again bring moderate to heavy rainfall to several districts, particularly in the higher reaches and mid-hill regions.
Why rainfall has reduced
The temporary decline in rainfall has been linked to changes in large-scale weather patterns.
Experts explained that the monsoon trough has shifted away from the Himalayan foothills, reducing the inflow of moisture into Himachal Pradesh. At the same time, the weakening of Western Disturbances has further limited rainfall across the region.
These combined factors have resulted in fewer rain-bearing clouds over the state during the past few days.
July rainfall remains well above normal
Despite the recent slowdown, Himachal Pradesh has recorded significantly higher rainfall than the seasonal average this month.
Data released by the IMD shows that the state has received around 120 mm of rainfall between July 1 and July 12, compared to the normal average of about 86 mm for the same period. This represents a surplus of nearly 40 per cent, reflecting the strong monsoon activity witnessed earlier in July.
However, rainfall distribution has not been uniform across the state. While several districts have recorded excess precipitation, Hamirpur and Mandi have remained below their normal rainfall levels during the period.
Authorities have advised residents not to lower their guard despite the temporary improvement in weather, as saturated hillsides remain vulnerable to landslides and fresh rainfall is expected to return later this week.
