Monsoon Variability: Uneven Rainfall Patterns Across India

Halfway through the monsoon season, 25% of India's meteorological subdivisions report deficient rainfall. Despite July's national surplus, regional disparities are significant. Notably, East, Northeast India, Haryana, Punjab, and Northwest India face shortfalls, while Central and Southern India see excess rainfall. IMD data highlights a complex precipitation landscape.

Halfway through the monsoon season, 25 per cent of India's 36 meteorological subdivisions have reported deficient rainfall.

According to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the nation experienced 9 per cent more rainfall than normal in July, with 306.6 mm compared to the standard 280.5 mm. This brought cumulative precipitation since June 1 to 453.8 mm, surpassing the usual 445.8 mm by 2 per cent.

However, the distribution of rainfall in July was uneven, both in terms of geography and time. Regions such as East Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Gangetic West Bengal, and parts of the northeast have faced significant deficits. Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir also recorded shortfalls ranging from 35 to 45 per cent.

IMD data reveals that while 13 subdivisions recorded above-average rainfall, 14 recorded normal levels, and 9 reported deficits. Notably, East and Northeast India's rainfall deficit increased from 13.3 per cent on June 30 to 19 per cent by July 31, recording 610.2 mm against the normal 752.5 mm.

Similarly, Northwest India saw a 13 per cent shortfall in July, with 182.4 mm compared to the normal 209.7 mm. The region received 235 mm so far this monsoon, against the standard 287.8 mm, marking an 18 per cent deficit.

Central India experienced a 33 per cent increase in July rainfall with 427.2 mm against the normal 321.3 mm, accumulating 574.2 mm so far this season, above the typical 491.6 mm. The southern peninsula saw 36 per cent more rainfall in July compared to normal, with total precipitation at 463.1 mm, surpassing the usual 365.5 mm by 27 per cent.