Long-term data-driven evidence reveals escalating rainfall extremes across urbanizing Himalayan foothills
For years, we believed the Himalayas were a climatic sanctuary—untouched, pristine, and resilient to the turbulence of modernization. But what happens when mountain cities begin to mimic the dynamics of megacities in the plains?
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Our findings reveal a striking paradox. Urban districts are now experiencing both heavier rainfall and longer dry spells than their rural counterparts.
Haridwar and Dehradun recorded mean rainfall totals of 377.64 mm and 158.4 mm, respectively—far exceeding those in non-urban districts like Tehri Garhwal (116.18 mm). Dehradun alone exhibited a steep upward trend in rainfall with a Sen's slope of 9.06 × 10⁻⁵, reflecting accelerated hydroclimatic shifts.
Yet, this intensification coexists with prolonged dry phases. In 2022, Dehradun recorded up to 81 consecutive dry days, followed by wet spells lasting nearly two months the following year.
This oscillation—between drought and deluge—signals the emergence of what we call a "climate duality." Such volatility poses serious challenges for water security, flood management, and disaster preparedness in rapidly urbanizing mountain systems.
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