IMD Forecasts Above-Normal Rainfall in July, Flood Alert for East Central India

Rainfall over India is likely to be above normal, exceeding 106% of the long period average in July, according to the India Meteorological Department. This forecast is expected to benefit farmers, boost the rural economy, and help keep inflation in check. July is a crucial monsoon month, typically accounting for 28 cm of the total LPA of 87 cm for the four monsoon months - June, July, August, and September.

With June rains already exceeding normal levels by 8.9%, the July forecast suggests that this year's Southwest Monsoon rainfall could meet the weather office's earlier estimate of being above normal. The overall June rainfall was 8.9% in excess, with significant variations across different regions of India.

IMD officials mentioned that while many parts of the country are likely to experience normal to above normal rainfall in July, some regions like northeast India, east India, south peninsular India, and parts of northwest India may receive below normal rainfall. July is a critical month for agriculture as it marks the sowing period for kharif crops, which are heavily dependent on monsoon rains.

IMD has issued flood warnings for Uttarakhand, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, parts of east Central India including Odisha, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha, and parts of Maharashtra. The director general of IMD emphasized the need for continuous monitoring of river basins and reservoirs to manage excess water effectively.

Both day and night temperatures are expected to be normal to below normal in many areas in July. While maximum temperatures are likely to remain normal to below normal in most regions, some areas in northeast India and parts of the northwest, east, and southern peninsula may experience above normal temperatures. Minimum temperatures are expected to be normal to below normal over many parts of the country, with some exceptions.

June witnessed relatively cool temperatures and excess rainfall across the country. The month saw heavy rainfall in several regions, with some areas reporting extremely heavy rain. It is important to note that regional disparities exist despite the aggregate rainfall figures.

According to the source: Hindustan Times.