India recorded its driest June in more than a decade and the fifth driest since rainfall records began in 1901, with monsoon rainfall ending the month 39.8% below the long-period average, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data cited by Reuters.India received 99.5 mm of rainfall in June, against the normal 165.3 mm, after the southwest monsoon reached Kerala three days later than usual and its advance across western farming regions stalled for nearly two weeks, Reuters reported.The rainfall deficit has slowed the sowing of key kharif crops such as rice, maize, cotton and soybean, while also prolonging hot weather across parts of northern India, where maximum temperatures crossed 42 degrees Celsius, according to the report.The southwest monsoon, which delivers about 70% of India's annual rainfall, is crucial for replenishing reservoirs and supporting agriculture in the nearly $4 trillion economy. Nearly half of India's farmland lacks irrigation, while around half the population depends on farming for its livelihood, Reuters reported.The weak start to the monsoon has heightened concerns over crop planting and agricultural output, although weather officials expect rainfall activity to pick up as the season progresses.
June rainfall drops 39.8% below normal, driest in over a decade
India experienced its driest June in over a decade, with monsoon rainfall falling nearly 40% below average. This deficit has delayed crucial crop sowing and prolonged heatwaves in northern regions. With a significant portion of farmland reliant on rain, the weak monsoon start raises concerns for agriculture and the economy, though improved rainfall is anticipated later in the season.
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