IMD predicts above-normal rainfall for August-September

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday forecasted above-normal rainfall for India in August and September, with a high likelihood of favourable La Nina conditions developing by the end of August

IMD chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra announced during an online press conference that rainfall over India in these months is expected to be around 106 per cent of the long-period average of 422.8 mm.

Since June 1, India has recorded 453.8 mm of rainfall against the normal of 445.8 mm, resulting in a surplus of two per cent. This is primarily due to a wetter-than-normal July following a drier June. The IMD expects normal to above-normal rainfall in most parts of the country for August-September, with some regions likely to experience belownormal rainfall.

The IMD chief anticipates deficient rainfall in parts of the western Himalayan region during this period. He also noted that above-normal maximum temperatures are expected over most parts of the country, with some areas in the Gangetic plains, central India, and the southeast coast likely to experience normal to below-normal maximum temperatures.