Southwest monsoon pause leaves India with 41% rainfall deficit
India's southwest monsoon has hit pause, causing a 41% rainfall deficit between June 4 and June 18, 2026.
Central India is feeling it the most, with a steep 67% shortfall, while the east and northeast regions are down by 42%.
Even the southern peninsula and northwest India aren't spared, seeing deficits of 22% and 6%.
It's left many wondering when the rains will finally pick up.
IMD blames weak winds, low moisture
According to the India Meteorological Department, or IMD, weak winds and less moisture from the Arabian Sea are slowing things down. There's also no boost from low-pressure systems or offshore troughs this time.
Maharashtra is stuck with just scattered showers for now. The government is preparing crop-specific backup plans to help farmers handle water shortages, and IMD says the monsoon should cover all of India by June 30, so fingers crossed for some relief soon.