Kerala records 28% monsoon rain deficit, Wayanad worst hit
Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala has recorded a 28 per cent deficit in southwest monsoon rainfall so far this year, with Wayanad and Idukki among the worst-affected districts, according to the latest data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The rainfall data, covering the period from June 1 to September 17, shows that the state has received substantially less rain than normal during the current monsoon season.
Wayanad has recorded the highest rainfall deficit in the state at 54 per cent, followed by Idukki at 47 per cent.
The significant shortfall in the two major high-range districts has raised concerns as the southwest monsoon season enters its final phase.
Weather officials have attributed the weaker monsoon conditions to the influence of the El Nino phenomenon, which has affected atmospheric and oceanic conditions associated with the southwest monsoon.
The rainfall deficit comes even as several parts of Kerala continue to experience high temperatures.
The combination of deficient rainfall and persistent heat has resulted in unusual weather conditions for the latter part of the monsoon season.
Punalur recorded the highest temperature in the state at 37 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, while Thiruvananthapuram city recorded 35.4 degrees Celsius.
Despite the overall rainfall deficit, the IMD has forecast the possibility of heavy rain at isolated places in the state over the coming days.
The expected showers, however, may not immediately make up for the accumulated rainfall deficit.
Weather conditions have also varied considerably across the state, with some areas receiving spells of rain while several other regions continue to remain comparatively dry.
The Weather Department is closely monitoring the changing conditions, with isolated heavy rainfall expected even as Kerala continues to face an overall shortage in monsoon rainfall.
With IANS inputs