India faces potential monsoon deficit due to El Nino, necessitating drought preparedness
After two years of surplus rainfall, India is likely to experience a significant monsoon shortfall, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting an 8% deficit for June-September. Historical data suggests that an April deficit warning often precedes a drought. The IMD anticipates a depressed monsoon in the latter half (August-September) due to El Nino, a cyclical phenomenon of central equatorial Pacific Ocean heating, which has correlated with deficient monsoons in the past. The government is urged to prepare by shoring up fertilizer stocks, ensuring equitable water distribution, and providing timely advisories to farmers.
Key Points
- India is projected to face a significant monsoon deficit after two years of surplus rainfall.
- The IMD forecasts an 8% "below normal" rainfall for the June-September period, with historical trends suggesting a potential drought.
- An anticipated El Nino phenomenon is expected to cause a depressed monsoon, particularly in August and September.
- The government needs to implement preparedness measures, including managing fertilizer stocks, water distribution, and farmer advisories.
Exam Facts
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted an 8% deficit for the June-September monsoon.
- A deficit below 90% of the Long Period Average (LPA) is termed "deficient" by IMD.
- El Nino is a cyclical phenomenon involving the heating of the central equatorial Pacific Ocean.
- The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is expected to counter the desiccating impact of El Nino this year.
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