Monsoon Retreat Brings Rain Deficit to 43% of India, Rajasthan and Punjab Most Affected

The southwest monsoon has begun a timely retreat from northwestern parts of India. With nearly 43 per cent of the country's geographical area still experiencing a rain deficit. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

This withdrawal is closer to the climatological normal than initially anticipated, with a deviation of four days from September 17. The line of monsoon withdrawal has already passed through several areas in Rajasthan, including Ramgarh, Mohangarh, Phalodi, and Khajuwala.

The national weather agency predicts that the monsoon will continue to retreat from more parts of Rajasthan over the next few days. With Punjab and Kutch-Saurashtra expected to follow suit within the next three to four days. Rajasthan and Punjab are likely to end the season with a significant rain deficit, ranging from 21 to 40 per cent.

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Other states that will be severely impacted include Meghalaya. This is forecasted to receive only 59 per cent of its normal rainfall. Followed by Andhra Pradesh at 43 per cent, Arunachal Pradesh at 41 per cent, and Bihar at 36 per cent.

A low-pressure system has developed over the North Andaman Sea region and is currently moving west-northwest towards north Andhra Pradesh-Odisha coasts. The IMD predicts that this system will intensify into a depression around September 21 and further deepen into a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal by September 22.

Over the next week, Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Sikkim, and coastal Andhra Pradesh can expect moderate to heavy rainfall. The national weather agency is closely monitoring this system and will provide further updates as necessary.

Regional Breakdown of Rainfall Deficits

Tamil Nadu and Haryana are forecasted to receive 22 per cent less rainfall than normal. Meanwhile, Telangana is expected to receive only 21 per cent. Goa is predicted to receive 35 per cent less rainfall.

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Followed by Karnataka at 31 per cent. Kerala at 28 per cent, Assam at 26 per cent, and Bihar at 36 per cent.

Implications for Agriculture

The significant rain deficit in several states will have a substantial impact on agriculture. With many crops facing severe water stress. Farmers are advised to take necessary precautions to mitigate the effects of this drought-like situation.

The India Meteorological Department is closely monitoring the weather situation and will provide regular updates as necessary. Residents in affected areas are urged to remain vigilant and follow all instructions from local authorities.