Sikkim has recorded 514.8 mm of monsoon rainfall up to June 30, which is 17% above the long-term average for the period, according to the Indian Meteorological Department. Debapriya Roy, Head of the Gangtok Meteorological Centre, Indian Meteorological Department, stated that the state received 514.8 mm of rainfall, which is 17% more than the long-term average for this period. In comparison, during the same period last year, the state had recorded a rainfall deficiency of about 35%.
The recent spells of rain are not being driven by a particularly strong monsoon current but are largely the result of localised thunderstorm activity. This year, an equatorial wave period is ongoing, and the monsoon is not that strong. Most of the rainfall over Sikkim is occurring due to thunderstorm activity that develops during the afternoon and evening.
Despite intense localised events, the season has remained within the normal range. For the season as a whole, we expect rainfall to remain within the normal range, around 95% to 104% of the long-term average. However, we are witnessing very heavy rainfall over specific locations on certain days.
The maximum rainfall was recorded in Mangan district on June 28, when Mangan township received 147.3 mm of rainfall. The IMD has also significantly increased the number of weather warnings issued this year. Till today, we have issued 20 orange alerts in Sikkim.
During the same period last year, only six orange alerts had to be issued. The Meteorological Centre remains in constant communication with the State Government, continuously coordinating and sharing forecasts regularly. Whenever heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected, we provide impact-based forecasts along with the precautions and actions that may be required.
Residents and tourists are advised to stay updated with official forecasts, which are available through WhatsApp channels, social media platforms, Facebook, and the official website.
