India's Southwest Monsoon Stalls, Leaving 66% of Country Experiencing Rain Deficits or Drought

The southwest monsoon has almost stopped in the country at this time. According to meteorologists, the northern limit of the monsoon has remained stable at both ends. The western end is stuck at Harnai in Maharashtra since June 8, while the eastern border is limited to Muzaffarpur in Bihar. There has been no significant expansion of the monsoon beyond this. According to Skymet, about 66 percent of the country is either rain-deficient or experiencing severe drought conditions. The greatest impact is seen in central India, where the rain deficit has reached 70 to 80 percent. All meteorological subdivisions of the central region have recorded heavy monsoon deficits. Due to western disturbances and upper atmospheric systems, some periodic rains have been occurring in northwest India, which has led to a relatively better situation there. However, eastern Uttar Pradesh is also now beginning to experience a rain deficit. According to experts, the monsoon deficit in the month of June can be 50 percent directly due to the arrival of the kharif season. This can become a concern for farmers and the agricultural sector.