Monsoon Bids Farewell to Himachal After Delay
Leaves Behind Deficit Rainfall and ₹3,400 Crore Damage
The Southwest monsoon has finally withdrawn from Himachal Pradesh, nine days later than its usual departure date of September 25. Interestingly, the monsoon had also arrived late this year, entering the state on June 30 and covering all districts by July 1, about a week behind schedule.
Despite the delayed arrival and withdrawal, the state received 652.3 mm of rainfall during the June-September monsoon season, which is 11 per cent below the normal average of 734.4 mm. While most districts recorded rainfall within the normal range, Hamirpur witnessed deficient rainfall and Lahaul-Spiti remained in the scanty category.
According to historical records, this year’s rainfall ranks as the 41st lowest monsoon total in the last 125 years. The highest monsoon rainfall ever recorded in Himachal was 1,314.6 mm in 1922. Weather data also highlights how erratic rainfall patterns have become, with the state recording a 39 per cent surplus in 2025 and significant deficits in several recent years.
Although rainfall remained below average, the monsoon season proved destructive. Official figures reveal that 366 people lost their lives in rain-related incidents across the state, while 614 were injured and four remain missing. Hundreds of houses suffered damage, livestock losses were reported, and cloudbursts, flash floods and landslides disrupted life in several districts.
The financial impact has also been severe. The total estimated loss from monsoon-related disasters stands at ₹3,412.80 crore. Roads and bridges bore the brunt of the damage, accounting for over ₹2,500 crore in losses, while thousands of drinking water schemes were affected across Himachal.
With the monsoon now behind it, the state is preparing for a fresh spell of weather activity. The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has forecast light rain and snowfall in higher reaches on October 5, with light to moderate precipitation expected in many parts of the state between October 6 and 9 under the influence of a Western Disturbance. Lightning and strong winds of 30-40 kmph are also likely at isolated locations in several districts, including Kangra, Shimla, Solan, Una and Sirmaur.
As Himachal transitions into the post-monsoon season, authorities remain focused on relief, rehabilitation and restoring damaged infrastructure while keeping a close watch on the changing weather conditions.