Himachal Pradesh experienced its sixth-lowest rainfall in December in 124 years, recording only 0.1 mm against a normal of 38.1 mm, a 99% deficit. Most districts received no rainfall, with only isolated precipitation on three days. The post-monsoon season (October-December) also saw a 16% deficit. This dry spell has raised concerns among farmers, particularly apple orchardists, due to the importance of snow for crop production.