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Heavy Rains Anticipated in Southern India Amidst Drought Concerns
India monsoon: Heavy rains expected over Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu this week
Khaleej Times
Image: Khaleej Times
The India Meteorological Department forecasts heavy rains in Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu this week. However, the overall monsoon season is expected to be one of the driest since 2015, with predictions of only 90% of the long-period average rainfall due to the potential impact of El Nino.
- 01The Southwest monsoon is predicted to be delayed but will bring heavy rains to southern states this week.
- 02The overall monsoon for 2026 is expected to be 90% of the long-period average, lower than the previous forecast of 92%.
- 03El Nino is anticipated to strengthen, with historical data indicating that 60% of such years lead to below-average monsoons in India.
- 04The monsoon season is critical for India's agriculture, providing about 70% of the annual rainfall and affecting crop yields.
- 05The government has initiated the 'Save the fields' campaign to provide farmers with crop-specific advisories due to the anticipated rainfall deficits.
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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced that heavy rainfall is expected over the next few days in the southern states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, as well as in Odisha and parts of West Bengal and Sikkim. Despite this immediate forecast, the overall monsoon season for 2026 is projected to be one of the driest since 2015, with rainfall expected to be only 90% of the long-period average (LPA), a reduction from the earlier forecast of 92%. Concerns are rising regarding the impact of El Nino, which has historically correlated with below-average monsoons in India. The IMD notes that 60% of El Nino years since 1951 have resulted in reduced rainfall. While the Northeast region may experience normal rainfall, central and southern peninsular India, particularly rainfed agricultural areas, are expected to see below-normal precipitation. In response, the government has launched the 'Save the fields' campaign to offer farmers tailored advice on crop management amidst these climatic challenges.
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The anticipated heavy rains may benefit immediate agricultural needs in southern states, but the overall dry forecast raises concerns for crop yields and farmer livelihoods.
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