Karnataka Faces Rainfall Shortfall as Monsoon Remains Weak, Raising Drought Concerns
With rainfall significantly below normal across Karnataka, experts warn of growing risks to agriculture and water supplies.
Bengaluru: A slow and underperforming monsoon season has sparked concern across Karnataka, leaving farmers and residents worried about the months ahead. According to the latest figures released by the weather department, the state has recorded 21 percent less rainfall than usual so far this season.
Meteorologists say the situation is particularly worrying because rainfall levels across the country are also far below normal. The weak monsoon has increased fears of drought like conditions in several regions, with experts pointing to the possible influence of El Niño on weather patterns.
Although the southwest monsoon officially arrived in Karnataka on June 4, rainfall during the crucial period from June 4 to June 15 remained disappointing. The state received only 19 millimetres of rain during this period, compared to the normal average of 53 millimetres.
The largest deficit has been reported in Coastal Karnataka, including Bhatkal, Mangaluru, Udupi and Karwar. These areas typically receive heavy rainfall during the early monsoon weeks, but this year rainfall in the coastal belt has fallen by 41 percent compared to normal levels.
The Malnad region has also experienced a significant shortfall. The area received only 84.8 millimetres of rainfall against the usual 132 millimetres, raising concerns about declining water levels in rivers, streams and reservoirs.
Weather experts caution that if rainfall does not improve in the coming weeks, the impact could be severe. Agricultural activities, sowing operations and drinking water availability may all be affected. They stress that the government and agricultural authorities should prepare contingency plans to address potential challenges arising from the prolonged rainfall deficit.