IMD warns Gujarat faces 91% monsoon deficit, kharif crops threatened
India
Gujarat's monsoon is off to a rough start, with just 3.5mm of rain since June 4, way below the usual 40.2mm.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) says this 91% rainfall deficit comes right when farmers need water for kharif crops like cotton and groundnut, making things pretty tough.
IMD: Maharashtra records 80% monsoon deficit
The delayed monsoon isn't just hitting Gujarat; Maharashtra is also feeling it, though its deficit is slightly less at 80%.
IMD points to weak monsoon activity over the Arabian Sea and frequent western disturbances diverting rain elsewhere.
Forecasts hint at some relief between June 22 and June 26, but a few days of rain will not be enough to erase the shortfall.