Southwest monsoon records 759.4 mm, 12.6% below normal due to El Nino conditions
GS1History · Society · Geography· Geophysical phenomena (earthquakes, cyclones, volcanoes)· Prelims·
Climate variability and El Nino impacts on monsoon patterns: a GS1 Geography and Agriculture focus.
Why in news
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon, which recorded 12.6% below normal rainfall due to El Nino conditions.
Background
The southwest monsoon recorded 759.4 mm of rainfall against a normal of 868.6 mm. The withdrawal coincided with the commencement of the northeast monsoon over south India, including regions like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and coastal Andhra Pradesh.
Facts for Prelims
- FactSouthwest monsoon rainfall: 759.4 mm (12.6% below normal)
- FactNormal southwest monsoon rainfall: 868.6 mm
- PlaceNortheast monsoon rainfall commenced over south India including Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema, south interior Karnataka, Kerala, and Mahe
- S&TEl Nino conditions were identified as the primary cause for the deficit in monsoon rainfall
Prelims practice question
Which of the following regions experienced the commencement of the northeast monsoon as the southwest monsoon withdrew?
- (a)Coastal Andhra Pradesh
- (b)Himachal Pradesh
- (c)Rajasthan
- (d)Punjab
Show answer
Answer: (a) Coastal Andhra Pradesh — The note states the northeast monsoon commenced over south India including coastal Andhra Pradesh.
For Mains
Q. Analyze how El Nino and La Nina phenomena influence India's monsoon patterns and discuss the implications for national food security.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Agricultural volatility: Rainfall deficits impacting Kharif crop yields and rural livelihoods
- Climate adaptation: Need for crop diversification and water-efficient irrigation in El Nino-prone years
Keywords: El Nino · Monsoon dynamics · Meteorological trends · Climate variability · Agricultural impact
More Geography notes
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- 2026 marks lowest monsoon in a decade as El Nino causes drought threshold deficit · 2 October 2026
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.