Normal rainfall during north-east monsoon
05-Feb-2025 04:24 PM
The report highlights some significant aspects of the 2024 northeast monsoon and its effects on India, particularly focusing on rainfall distribution and its impact on water levels.
Arrival and Departure of the Northeast Monsoon: The northeast monsoon arrived earlier than expected on October 15, 2024, five days ahead of its scheduled date. However, it did not last as long as expected, officially departing from Tamil Nadu on January 27, 2025, which was four weeks later than its usual end date of December 20.
Rainfall and Its Variability:
- The total cumulative rainfall during the northeast monsoon season (October to December 2024) was about 3% less than the long-term average, recording 117.4 mm compared to the average of 121 mm.
- Rainfall was uneven, with some months experiencing significant deviations from the average. For instance, November 2024 saw a 55% deficit in rainfall compared to the normal, while December 2024 recorded 74% more than the average.
- The impact of this uneven rainfall was particularly notable in South India, where areas like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala typically receive more rainfall during this monsoon. But the rainfall deficit in November followed by a surplus in December indicates irregular patterns.
Effects on Water Levels:
- The lack of adequate rainfall, especially in northern India, has led to a sharp decrease in the water levels of dams and reservoirs. States like Punjab, Bihar, and Himachal Pradesh have been severely affected, seeing a substantial decline in water storage. This has raised concerns about water availability, particularly for irrigation and other needs.
Looking Ahead: Attention now shifts to the pre-monsoon period (March to May), which is crucial for zaid crops. Farmers and authorities will be closely monitoring these rains, as they play a key role in the sowing and growth of crops in this season.
In summary, while the northeast monsoon had an early arrival and a late departure, the total rainfall during the season was slightly below average, with significant regional variations. These weather patterns are contributing to ongoing concerns about water scarcity in various parts of India, especially in light of the decreasing water levels in reservoirs. The focus is now on the pre-monsoon rains for the coming agricultural season.