Karnataka's overall rain deficit has narrowed to 34 percent as of July 6, 2026, according to the latest state government data. However, the improvement masks a continuing shortfall in 18 districts, which still report rainfall more than 20 percent below normal.
Statewide Improvement but Uneven Distribution
The deficit has reduced from earlier highs, yet the distribution remains highly uneven. While some regions have received near-normal or excess rains, others continue to face dry conditions. The state's average rainfall for the season so far stands at 66 percent of the long-period average, up from 40 percent in late June.
Officials attribute the narrowing deficit to increased precipitation in coastal and northern districts over the past week. However, central and southern districts remain parched, with several tehsils reporting acute moisture stress for crops.
Districts Still in the Red
The 18 deficit districts include major agricultural areas such as Chitradurga, Tumakuru, Kolar, Chikkaballapura, Hassan, and Mandya. In these districts, rainfall deficits range from 22 percent to 45 percent below normal. The worst-hit is Chitradurga, with a deficit of 45 percent.
According to Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) data, only 12 districts have received normal or excess rainfall. The remaining 10 districts fall in the 'normal' category but with deficits under 20 percent.
Impact on Agriculture and Reservoirs
The rain shortfall has delayed kharif sowing in deficit districts. As of July 5, only about 55 percent of the normal sown area has been covered, compared to 70 percent last year. Key crops like paddy, ragi, and pulses are affected. Farmers in dry areas are awaiting rains to complete transplanting.
Reservoir levels across the state are also below average. The total live storage in major dams is at 35 percent of capacity, compared to the normal 50 percent for this time of year. The Krishna and Cauvery basins are particularly low, raising concerns for drinking water and irrigation later in the season.
Weather Outlook
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast above-normal rainfall for Karnataka in the second half of July. If this materializes, the deficit could narrow further. However, officials caution that the distribution remains key—excess rains in already saturated coastal areas could lead to flooding, while deficit regions may still miss out.
KSNDMC director Dr. G.S. Srinivasa Reddy said, "We are hopeful that the monsoon will revive in the coming weeks, but immediate relief is needed for the 18 deficit districts. We are monitoring the situation closely and have advised farmers to opt for short-duration crops."
Government Response
The Karnataka government has declared a drought-like situation in five taluks of Chitradurga and Tumakuru districts. Relief measures, including supply of drinking water through tankers and provision of fodder, have been initiated. The revenue department is assessing crop losses for potential compensation.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reviewed the situation on July 5 and directed officials to ensure timely distribution of seeds and fertilizers to farmers in deficit areas. He also urged the central government to release funds from the National Disaster Response Fund.
