Monsoon 2024: Breaking Rainfall Records and Predictions

The 2024 southwest monsoon season concluded with India receiving 934.8 mm rainfall, 108% of the long-period average and the highest since 2020. Central India saw the most surplus rainfall at 19% above normal. The monsoon is crucial for agriculture and water reservoirs across the country.

The 2024 southwest monsoon season concluded on Monday, bringing India 934.8 mm of rainfall, the highest since 2020 and 108 per cent of the long-period average, according to the India Meteorological Department.

Central India recorded a 19 per cent surplus, the southern peninsula had 14 per cent more than usual, and northwest India received 7 per cent above the norm. However, east and northeast India experienced a shortfall of 14 per cent. Despite a challenging start with an 11 per cent deficit in June, the season saw surplus rainfall in July, August, and September.

Accurate forecasts by the IMD contributed to preparedness across the country. The monsoon remains vital for India's agriculture, impacting 52 per cent of the net cultivated area and essential for filling reservoirs that supply drinking water and support power generation.