Above Normal Rainfall, Potential Risk Of Flooding Predicted In Central And South Peninsula

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) today predicted a “most likely above-normal rainfall” over the country during the 2024 monsoon season, starting from June to September.  The IMD specifically forecast an increased rainfall of the southwest monsoon season in the central and southern peninsula.

The metrological agency also noted that most parts of the country except areas of the northern part of Northwest India, Northeast India and eastern part of Central India and adjoining areas of east India would receive the above-normal rainfall. It also predicted below-normal to normal rainfall in these areas. 

As the authorities predict the most likely above-normal rainfall in the southern peninsula, people in Kerala, which witnessed an earlier arrival of rain, have been worried about the potential risk. During the flash rain that lashed across the state in the past week, several cities” saw water overlogging, creating bottlenecks for smooth traffic.

Notably, while predicting the above-normal rainfall, the IMD has also warned of the potential risk of flooding, transportation disruptions, public health issues, and ecosystem damage. It has also advised the local authorities to reinforce infrastructure, implement early warnings provided, and build suitable response systems in sectors likely to be affected.  

The weather forecasting authority has also opined that the above-normal rainfall can boost agriculture and water resources 

However, the IMD predicted that the above-normal heatwave will continue during June 2024, over most parts of Northwest India and adjoining areas of Central India. It also urged people and authorities to take precautions to deal conditions with the heat exposure. Parts of Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh would experience the heat, though it predicted a gradual reduction of the intensity.