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India's Southwest Monsoon Begins Withdrawal After Deficient Rainfall

India’s rainy season has started to retreat from the west.

The India Meteorological Department said the withdrawal began in parts of west Rajasthan.

This happened two days later than usual.

More areas of Rajasthan, Punjab, Saurashtra and Kutch may see the monsoon leave soon.

Overall, India received less rain than normal this season.

Rainfall was especially low in east and northeast India and southern peninsular India.

The monsoon is expected to disappear from the country by October 15.

Farmers increased planting after rains improved in July, but total kharif crop acreage is still slightly below last year’s level.

Key facts

Rainfall through September 19: 14.9% below the long-period average, classified as deficient.
Withdrawal timing: Began two days later than the normal date.
Expected full withdrawal: By October 15.
Seasonal arrival: The monsoon reached Kerala on June 4 and covered the country by July 9.
Regional rainfall: Central India was normal; northwest India was 9.2% below normal, east and northeast India 25.7% below, and south peninsular India 28.5% below.
Kharif acreage: About 1.45% lower than last year and 0.72% below the five-year average.
El Niño conditions: The IMD indicated continued strengthening through the remaining southwest monsoon period.

financialexpress.com · 1 hr ago