Driest, warmest Aug in 122 yrs, Sep may see normal rains: IMD
New Delhi: August has been the driest and warmest month in the entire country since 1901. Monsoon precipitation in August across the central India and the south Peninsular region has also been the lowest in 122 years since 1901, making it one of the worst and deficient monsoon months in history, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Thursday. Rainfall across the country was 162.7 mm this August compared to 254.9 mm actual.
Both average maximum and mean temperatures in the country were the highest since 1901. There were two phases of monsoon break conditions in August—5-16 August and 27-31 August. The monsoon trough was mostly north of its normal condition making it highly unfavourable for rainfall over the plains.
“As El Nino conditions have started gaining strength and because of unfavourable Madden Julian Oscillation, August rainfall was adversely affected," said IMD director general Mrutyunjay Mohapatra. While presenting monthly rainfall and temperature forecast for September, the met department chief said, “Precipitation in September is expected to be normal ranging between 91 and 109% of long period average (LPA). Normal to above normal rainfall is most likely over many areas of northeast India, adjoining east India, foothills of the Himalayas and some areas of east-central and south peninsular India.
The below-normal rainfall is most likely over most areas of the remaining parts of the country." The forecast came at a time when water reservoir levels are falling. Although IMD predicts normal rainfall in September, it may not make up for the deficiency of 36% in August alone and 10% during 1 June-31 August. If the highest value of 91-109% is considered, the country will still require about 22% precipitation.
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