IMD Predicts India May Receive 90% of Normal Monsoon Rainfall
Weather department says most regions may receive below-normal rain except Northeast India
NEW DELHI, May 29: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday revised its Southwest monsoon forecast for 2026, stating that the country is likely to receive rainfall equivalent to 90 per cent of the long period average (LPA) during the monsoon season.
The latest projection indicates a marginal decline from the IMD’s first-stage forecast issued on April 13, which had estimated seasonal rainfall at 92 per cent of the long period average.
According to the weather office, Northeast India is expected to receive normal rainfall during the June-September monsoon period, while most other regions of the country may experience below-normal precipitation.
The revised outlook comes amid growing concerns over the possible emergence of El Nino conditions, which are generally associated with weaker monsoon activity and higher temperatures across the Indian subcontinent.
Meteorologists said rainfall distribution during the monsoon season will play a critical role in agriculture, water storage and overall economic activity, especially as Kharif sowing operations begin across several states.
The monsoon remains vital for India’s farm sector, which supports a large section of the population and contributes significantly to foodgrain production. Agricultural experts are closely monitoring rainfall patterns as farmers prepare for large-scale sowing of paddy, pulses, oilseeds and coarse cereals.
Despite the forecast of reduced rainfall, officials said contingency planning and crop management strategies are being strengthened to minimise any potential impact on agricultural output.
