India records 29% deficit pre-monsoon rainfall, says IMD, Pune

In Maharashtra, Konkan and Goa regions reported 87% pre-monsoon rainfall deficiency, which is the highest in the state; followed by Vidarbha at 68%

The country has recorded 29% deficit pre-monsoon rainfall from March 1 to May 1, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD), Pune.

Drought-affected regions like Marathwada received 56% less rainfall, followed by central Maharashtra at 43% deficiency in the pre-monsoon period. (HT Photo)

IMD data states that 50.7mm rainfall was recorded across the country from March to May as against the normal precipitation of 71mm. The highest deficiency was recorded in western Gujarat, Arunachal Pradesh, east and west Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Marathwada, Vidharbha, Telangana and Kerala.

In Maharashtra, Konkan and Goa regions reported 87% pre-monsoon rainfall deficiency, which is the highest in the state; followed by Vidarbha at 68%.

Similarly, drought-affected regions like Marathwada received 56% less rainfall, followed by central Maharashtra at 43% deficiency in the pre-monsoon period.

“During this pre-monsoon period, although there were enough WD (western disturbances), they were weak and unable to create rainfall. Also, there was very less formation of low trough line as a result of which rainfall systems were not developed,” said Anupam Kashyapi, head of weather, IMD, Pune.

DM More, secretary of the second Maharashtra Irrigation Commission, expressed concern saying that this could aggravate drought conditions in parts of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Telangana.

“This year, we have already lost Kharif as well as Rabbi season because of inadequate rainfall. Most of the horticulture crops and summer vegetables are dependent on pre-monsoon rainfall,” More said.

Parts of central India including east Rajasthan, west Madhya Pradesh, east Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand and Gangetic West Bengal have recorded above normal rainfall.

Over the years

Year - Deficit pre-monsoon rainfall (In %)

2019 - 29

2018 - 21

2017 - 4 (+)

2016 - 14

2015 - 89 (+)

Source: IMD