India is facing a significant rainfall shortfall as the southwest monsoon loses momentum after its initial onset. According to the latest data, the country is currently recording a 35 per cent rainfall deficit, raising concerns for agriculture and water availability in several regions.
The monsoon reached Kerala three days later than its usual June 1 arrival date and is now running more than a week behind schedule in reaching Mumbai.
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Central India records steepest rainfall shortfall
Among all regions, central India has been hit the hardest, receiving 63 per cent less rainfall than normal. East and northeast India are also facing a substantial deficit of 43 per cent, while southern India has recorded 14 per cent below-normal rainfall, per a report by NDTV.
Northwest India remains the only exception, registering 5 per cent more rainfall than average during the period.
Tourists throng enjoy the rainfall at Manali's Mall Road during pleasant weather in the evening, in Manali. File image/ANI According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), strong dry westerly winds are preventing rain-bearing clouds from advancing further north, slowing the progress of the monsoon across large parts of the country.
In response to the situation, the government has asked states to prepare crop-wise contingency plans and has placed nearly 200 districts under priority monitoring. Weekly reviews related to El Nino conditions have also been ordered to assess the evolving weather pattern.
Why has the monsoon slowed down?
Per NDTV report, DS Pai, chief forecaster at the IMD's Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai, said that the delayed progress is the result of a clash between monsoon winds and mid-latitude weather systems.
These systems, driven by strong westerly winds, usually influence northwest India during winter. However, a weaker monsoon this year has struggled to push those winds northward.
An “anticyclonic circulation” to Mumbai's north, combined with a westerly push from mid-latitude weather systems, has prevented the monsoon from establishing itself, Pai told The Hindu.
El Nino and weather patterns add to concerns
The slowdown comes amid concerns over a possible “Super El Nino”, which could adversely affect India's monsoon performance.
Also Read | IMD sounds rain alert for Kolkata, Bengaluru; Maharashtra braces for more heatwave days
Adding to the challenge, the Madden-Julian Oscillation is currently in an “unfavourable” phase. According to Dr. Pai, this could delay the monsoon's arrival in Mumbai by another five to six days.
He added that the formation of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal could help accelerate the monsoon's advance in the coming days.
FAQs:
Why has India's monsoon slowed down?
IMD says dry westerly winds and unfavourable atmospheric conditions are slowing its advance.
Which region has been hit hardest by the rainfall deficit?
Central India, which has recorded 63% less rainfall than normal.
