Mangaluru, Jun 21: The monsoon season has commenced as scheduled in coastal districts, but its intensity has been notably subdued, contrary to earlier forecasts by the IMD predicting heavy rains. Weather experts attribute this to depleted moisture from high temperatures in northern India, which has weakened the southwest monsoons.
According to meteorologists, the Remal cyclone in West Bengal initially disrupted monsoon patterns by diverting moisture, followed by persistent heat in northern India further diminishing rainfall. As a result, coastal and Malnad regions have seen isolated and moderate rainfall, with typical monsoon patterns absent.
The Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority reports a notable rainfall deficit in June across these districts. The IMD anticipates a potential resurgence of heavy rains from June 21 to 28, followed by reduced intensity in July. Previous expectations of La Nina bringing substantial rainfall after El Nino’s departure in March and April have yet to materialize fully.
“This year’s monsoon trajectory remains uncertain,” commented weather analyst Saishekhar. Data from June 1 to 19, 2024, shows significant rainfall deficits in Dakshina Kannada (33%), Udupi (30%), and Uttara Kannada (23%) districts compared to historical averages.