India faces uneven monsoon rains leaving many states dry

Monsoon rains across India show a highly uneven pattern this year, leaving the nation with an overall deficit of 12 percent. Between June 4 and August 10, the country recorded 465.9 mm of rainfall against the expected 527.2 mm, according to recent India Meteorological Department data. This national shortage hides a stark contrast between different regions, as some areas face severe dry spells while others deal with heavy flooding. The Indian monsoon relies heavily on shifting trough lines and low-pressure systems forming over the oceans, which often drench specific zones and skip others entirely.

States dealing with dry weather

Meghalaya usually gets heavy showers, but it currently stands as the driest state. It has received 56 percent less rain than normal, logging just 763.1 mm compared to its usual 1,739.6 mm. Other eastern states like Arunachal Pradesh and Bihar are facing a 36 percent shortfall. Regions such as Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, and Goa also report a 35 percent drop in expected showers.

Odisha leads with excess showers

Odisha tells a completely different story. The coastal state has enjoyed 28 percent more rain than average, recording 857.8 mm instead of the standard 668.7 mm. Frequent low-pressure formations over the Bay of Bengal often bring strong weather systems directly to the Odisha coast. For example, a system developed over south Gangetic West Bengal and northern Odisha on August 8, pulling in heavy moisture and widespread downpours.

Rainfall distribution naturally fluctuates as weather systems move. Experts expect another low-pressure zone to form over the northern Bay of Bengal around August 12. This new system should bring more showers to central and eastern regions, including Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand. Since the official season lasts until September 30, nearly seven weeks remain to bridge the gap. Still, heavy storms in already flooded regions will not balance out the severe shortages in dry states.

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Source: IMD