IMD Predicts Above-Normal Rainfall Amid La Nina Forecast

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts above-normal rainfall in August and September, potentially leading to landslides and floods. Essential for agriculture, this rain is critical in replenishing reservoirs. La Nina conditions are expected to set in by late August, impacting the Indian monsoon season.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts that India will experience above-normal rainfall in August and September, with favourable La Nina conditions potentially developing by the end of August. The monsoon, vital for India's agriculture, impacts 52% of cultivated land and replenishes essential reservoirs.

IMD Chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra indicated that rainfall in August and September will be approximately 106% of the long-period average of 422.8 mm. Since June 1, the country has already recorded 453.8 mm of rain, exceeding the normal amount of 445.8 mm by two percent.

Although normal to above-normal rainfall is anticipated in most regions, below-normal rainfall is expected in parts of the northeast, east India, and other specified regions. Central India, which relies heavily on monsoon rains for agriculture, has been receiving good rainfall for the third consecutive season, benefiting farmers. Climate change, however, is increasing the variability of the monsoon, leading to more extreme weather patterns.