IMD predicts above-normal July rainfall; flood alert in these states
What's the story
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted above-normal rainfall for July, exceeding 106% of the long period average. This forecast is expected to benefit farmers and boost the rural economy, as well as keep a check on headline inflation. The southwest monsoon's performance so far has been promising, with June rains being 8.9% above normal in the country. However, some regions, such as northeast India and parts of northwest India, might receive below-normal rainfall this month.
Regional forecast
Flood alert issued for several states
The IMD's long period average for July is around 280.4mm, based on data from 1971 to 2020. The department has also issued a flood alert for Uttarakhand, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, and parts of east-central India, including Odisha, Telangana, Vidarbha, and Chhattisgarh. M Mohapatra, Director General of IMD, emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring in these areas due to several river basins and south-flowing rivers in Uttarakhand.
Flood alert
Possible flooding in Uttarakhand, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi
Mohapatra said, "Our long range forecast indicates that Uttarakhand, Haryana-Chandigarh-Haryana region, and several parts of central and east central India will receive above-normal rain. "We should take care, and there should be continuous monitoring. There are several river basins in these areas, rivulets are also flowing here, and hence reservoirs need continuous monitoring so that there is timely release of excess water," he added.
Temperature forecast
Day and night temperatures likely to be normal
The IMD has also predicted that both day and night temperatures will be normal to below normal in many parts of the country this July. However, northeast India and some areas of the northwest, east, and southern peninsula are likely to witness above-normal minimum temperatures. June was relatively cool, with the average maximum temperature being the 36th lowest since 1901.