Kerala Records Seventh-Lowest Southwest Monsoon With 28% Deficit
· India · The Hindu, Hindustan Times
The southwest monsoon officially concluded in Kerala with the state recording a 28% rainfall deficit, receiving 1,446.5 mm of rain against the normal 2,018.6 mm. According to India Meteorological Department data, nearly 70% of the state remained significantly rain-deficient by September 30, marking the seventh-lowest monsoon rainfall recorded since 1901. Idukki and Wayanad districts were among the hardest hit, each receiving roughly 50% less rainfall than normal, impacting key reservoirs and hydropower generation capacity. Eight districts reported deficits between 20% and 53%, while six districts recorded deficits ranging from 0% to 20%. The state now looks to the upcoming northeast monsoon in mid-October for relief, though emerging El Niño conditions over the equatorial Pacific threaten to bring below-normal rainfall during the opening month.
Why it matters
The severe rainfall deficit threatens agricultural output and depletes major reservoirs in Idukki and Wayanad, raising concerns over hydropower generation and drought-like conditions across Kerala.
Read the original report — The Hindu
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