Himachal’s Driest December in 125 Years Leaves Fields Thirsty and Peaks Bare
December 2025 turned out to be anything but wintry in Himachal Pradesh. The state recorded a staggering 99% deficit in rainfall, making it one of the driest Decembers in more than a century. According to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, last month ranked as the sixth driest December since 1901, with barely any rain falling between December 1 and 31.
A Month Without Rain
Only five earlier years—1901, 1907, 1925, 1939, and 1993—had seen an even worse situation, when December rainfall was completely absent. Normally, December brings showers and snow to the hills, but weak western disturbances failed to stir up clouds this time, leaving most districts parched.
Mountains Without Snow
Higher reaches that usually sparkle under fresh snow—like those in Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and Kullu—remained largely bare. Farmers watched their fields dry out, while tourists missed the winter charm of snow-clad peaks.
A Stark Contrast in Records
The dry spell stands out even more when compared to December 1929, the wettest on record, when Himachal received 176 mm of rainfall. This year’s near-zero precipitation highlights just how unusual the weather has been.
Warmer Than Usual Winter
Without snowfall or cold waves, temperatures stayed above normal. Sunny days stretched across the month, softening the bite of winter and reducing the chill that usually defines December in the hills.
Experts Raise Concerns
Meteorologists warn that such dry winters can have serious consequences. Snowfall is vital for groundwater recharge and river flow in the months ahead. A prolonged dry spell could affect water availability, agriculture, and horticulture—sectors that depend heavily on winter precipitation in Himachal.
