With reference to the rainfall deficit in Karnataka, consider the following statements: 1. Bengaluru South experienced a rainfall shortage of 87% due to El Nino. 2. Karnataka recorded a 32% rainfall deficit against a normal of 831.8 mm. 3. The HAL station recorded a rainfall of 313 mm. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Karnataka faces -32% rainfall deficit as Bengaluru South sees -87% shortage

GS1History · Society · Geography· Geophysical phenomena (earthquakes, cyclones, volcanoes)· Prelims· 1 October 2026

Climate change and El Nino impacts on monsoon variability: a GS1 Geography and GS3 disaster management case study.

Why in news

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a significant rainfall deficit in Karnataka, with Bengaluru South experiencing an extreme -87% shortage attributed to El Nino.

Background

Karnataka received 564.6 mm of rainfall against a normal of 831.8 mm, resulting in a -32% deficit. Bengaluru city recorded 313 mm (a -236 mm departure), while the HAL station recorded 434 mm.

Facts for Prelims

FactKarnataka rainfall deficit: -32% against a normal of 831.8 mm
FactBengaluru South rainfall deficit: -87%
FactHAL station rainfall: 434 mm
S&TEl Nino: Identified by C.S Patil as a primary driver for the rainfall deficit

Prelims practice question

With reference to the rainfall deficit in Karnataka, consider the following statements:

Bengaluru South experienced a rainfall shortage of 87% due to El Nino.
Karnataka recorded a 32% rainfall deficit against a normal of 831.8 mm.
The HAL station recorded a rainfall of 313 mm.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a)1 and 2 only
(b)1 and 3 only
(c)2 and 3 only
(d)1, 2 and 3

Show answer

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only — Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect: The HAL station recorded 434 mm while Bengaluru city recorded 313 mm.

For Mains

Q. Analyze the impact of El Nino on India's monsoon patterns and discuss measures to mitigate the effects of extreme rainfall deficits on regional water security.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

Hydrological stress: Acute groundwater depletion in Bengaluru South due to extreme -87% rainfall deficit
Climate vulnerability: Regional disparity in rainfall distribution across Coastal and Interior Karnataka
Agricultural risk: Impact of El Nino-induced moisture stress on Karnataka's interior farming belts

Keywords: El Nino · Monsoon variability · Rainfall deficit · Hydrological stress · Climate resilience

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