The all India average rainfall for June is deficient by about 42%, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Against a normal of 113 mm, the country has received only 65.2 mm this month.
Regional Rainfall Deficits
As per IMD sub-divisional rainfall maps, states including Punjab, Uttarakhand, Delhi, East and West Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, Telangana, West Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala have received low rainfall. Punjab recorded 27% less rainfall than normal, while Uttarakhand experienced a 42% deficit.
Comparison with Last Year
In June last year, rainfall for the country as a whole was 109% of its Long Period Average (LPA) value. The IMD has predicted that India is likely to receive below-normal rainfall during the entire southwest monsoon season (June to September).
Monsoon Progress
The southwest monsoon on Tuesday advanced further into parts of Maharashtra (including Mumbai), remaining parts of Telangana and Odisha, and some more parts of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Bihar. The IMD stated, “Conditions are favourable for further advance of southwest monsoon into more parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh, some parts of Madhya Pradesh in the next 2-3 days; and in remaining parts of Jharkhand & Bihar, some parts of Uttar Pradesh during subsequent 3-4 days.”
Weather Forecast
Owing to a western disturbance, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi will receive scattered rains until June 26, and Punjab on June 29.
Importance of Monsoon
The southwest monsoon rainfall is crucial for India, supporting the agricultural sector that employs nearly half the population and contributes significantly to the economy. Approximately 75% of India's annual rainfall occurs during the monsoon season, replenishing rivers, lakes, and groundwater vital for irrigation and drinking water supplies.
