Fifth Driest June Since 1901 

Context

India experienced one of its driest Junes since 1901 due to a significant rainfall deficit, delayed monsoon progress and strengthening El Niño conditions.

Key Highlights

• June rainfall recorded a deficit of around 43%.
• Ranked as the fifth driest June since 1901.
• Delayed arrival of the southwest monsoon over Delhi.
• El Niño conditions may continue to affect seasonal rainfall.

Way Forward

• Promote contingency crop planning.
• Strengthen water conservation and reservoir management.
• Improve monsoon forecasting and climate adaptation strategies.

Concept

Southwest Monsoon: Seasonal wind system responsible for nearly 70% of India’s annual rainfall.

El Niño: Abnormal warming of the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, generally associated with weaker Indian monsoon.

LPA (Long Period Average): Benchmark average rainfall used to measure deficits and surpluses.

Monsoon Onset: Northward progression of monsoon winds from Kerala across India.