Stay updated with breaking news from India Rainfall. Get real-time updates on events, politics, business, and more. Visit us for reliable news and exclusive interviews.
Monsoon rains were 36% below average in August at 162.7 mm and overall summer rains were 10% lower than normal since the season began on June 1, says director-general of IMD
El Nino and the Madden Julian Oscillation (MJO) are causing below-normal rainfall in India, which could lead to a significant drought. The agriculture sector, which heavily relies on monsoon rains, will be negatively impacted, affecting both food production and prices. This could result in higher inflation and potentially force the Reserve Bank of India to raise interest rates. The MJO cycle is being affected by the expansion of the warm pool, leading to altered rainfall patterns globally.
India is experiencing its driest August in over 100 years due, in part, to the El Nino weather pattern, according to sources. Weather officials have warned the lack of rainfall could damage yields of summer crops such as rice and soybeans, leading to higher prices and inflation, which is already at its highest level since January 2020.
"This year, we are experiencing more than usual rainfall, probably due to global warming... Heavy rains mixed with flash flooding will further delay planting, resulting in lower-than-normal yields.
Weathermen have issued a warning that such interactions will be more and more likely to lead to extreme rain and flooding in as the world gradually warms. The serious warning had resonated with various quarters in India even as the latest torrential downpour has served to wipe out this season's nationwide rain deficit.