Above-normal monsoon predicted again in 2025

15-Apr-2025 07:34 PM

New Delhi. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast above-normal rainfall during the southwest monsoon season this year, similar to 2024.

Rainfall during June to September 2025 is expected to be 105% of the long-period average (LPA), which is estimated at 87 cm. Rainfall above 104% of LPA is considered above-normal.

Private forecaster Skymet has also projected 103% of LPA, categorizing it as normal. Experts cite the neutral status of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) as favorable factors for good monsoon performance.

India received 8% surplus rainfall during the 2024 monsoon—the best in the last three years. A strong monsoon is critical for sowing of Kharif crops like rice, pulses, oilseeds, and coarse grains, and plays a vital role in controlling food inflation and boosting the rural economy.