Karnataka Faces Worst Monsoon Since 1971, Rainfall Deficit Reaches 35%

Karnataka had much less rain than usual during this year’s southwest monsoon.

Rainfall was 35% below normal across the state.

This has caused widespread drought conditions.

Every month from June through September had less rain than expected.

September was the driest month, with rainfall 54% below normal.

The state’s monitoring center says this was its worst monsoon since 1971.

The earlier record deficit was in 2002, when rainfall was 33% below normal.

Forecasters expect the dry weather to continue in October and November.