Himachal grapples with historic low rain and snow in 2024
In an extraordinary meteorological development, Himachal Pradesh is currently experiencing its driest January in 120 plus years, surpassing records set in 1996, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). As of January 21, 2024, the state faces a remarkable 99.7% deficiency in precipitation, marking an unprecedented period of dry weather.
Throughout the month, the region has encountered a persistent dry spell, with only sporadic instances of light to moderate precipitation providing minimal relief. Despite a slight change on January 17, the precipitation received was insufficient to alleviate the severe drought-like conditions prevailing across the state.
The cumulative precipitation for January 2024, up until January 21, stands at a mere 0.1, in stark contrast to the normal precipitation of 43.1. This staggering departure of -99.7% highlights the severity of the drought, adversely impacting residents and agricultural activities. Reports of dense fog, cold waves, and ground frost in isolated places, particularly in districts like Una, Kangra, Bilaspur, and Mandi, add to the challenges faced by the region.
Data spanning back to 1901 reveals that 2024 not only breaks the record for the driest January by January 21 but also deviates significantly from historical weather patterns. The second driest January was recorded in 1966, followed by 2007, with deficits of 99.6% and 98.5%, respectively.
Despite the prolonged dry spell, there may be a glimmer of hope on the horizon. The Meteorological Department’s extended-range weather forecast suggests a potential change in weather patterns between January 26 and February 1. The forecast indicates the likelihood of rain and snowfall in various parts of the state during this period, providing hope to residents and agricultural communities.
The affected regions, including Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Shimla, Sirmaur, Solan, Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Mandi, and Kullu, are expected to witness a return to average rainfall. The rest of the state is also anticipated to experience a resurgence in normal precipitation levels, offering relief to the land and its inhabitants.
Amidst the anticipation of rejuvenating rainfall and snowfall, residents remain optimistic, hoping for a shift in the weather pattern that could bring much-needed relief to the region’s agricultural and ecological systems.
In response to dwindling water levels in drinking water schemes across the state, the Government of Himachal Pradesh has initiated emergency measures. The alarming decline in water levels within drinking water schemes is a direct consequence of the scarcity of rain and snowfall over the past two months, resulting in a significant 50 percent reduction in water levels in various districts.
The state faces the imminent threat of drought, impacting not only the water levels in drinking water schemes but also disrupting the functioning of lift schemes in multiple sub-divisions. In a proactive response, the Jal Shakti Department has swiftly issued SOPs to all circles to streamline efforts in addressing the crisis. As Himachal Pradesh grapples with this historic drought, the government’s prompt actions aim to mitigate the impact on water supply and ensure the well-being of its residents.
