Punjab experienced its highest August rainfall since 2000, recording 253.7 mm against a normal of 146.2 mm, resulting in a 74% surplus, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Neighboring Haryana also saw significant rainfall, with 194.5 mm recorded-32% above its average of 147.7 mm for the month. Historically, August has often been marked by deficient rainfall in Punjab; for instance, in 2014, the state faced a 75% deficit, and in 2023, a 62% deficit, despite both years experiencing severe flooding.
In previous years, Punjab’s August rainfall was notably below the norm, such as in 2008, when it recorded a 246.7 mm rainfall, a 46% surplus, and in 2013 with 217 mm, marking a 27% surplus. This year’s surplus was attributed to heavy rains in the northern and central districts, with Pathankot leading at 944.2 mm, followed by Gurdaspur at 577.5 mm and Jalandhar at 479.9 mm.
Haryana marked its second-wettest August in 26 years. The increase in rainfall contrasts sharply with trends over the last two decades, where multiple years experienced significant rainfall deficits, including severe drops in 2006, 2009, 2024, and 2023. The wettest August on record for Haryana was in 2004, when it received 250 mm of rain, a 49% increase over the norm. This year, Fatehabad recorded the highest single rainfall amount in the state at 298.3 mm, representing a staggering 252% above normal, while Yamuna Nagar also saw considerable rainfall at 408.5 mm, 33% above normal.
These fluctuations in rainfall underscore the changing climate patterns and the importance of water management, especially given the historical context of rainfall deficits in the region.
Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/punjab-sees-wettest-aug-in-26-yrs-10222969/
Category: Chandigarh,Cities
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Publish Date: 2025-09-01 03:56:00
