India Braces for Above-Normal Rains in Monsoon's 2nd Half: IMD

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast above-normal rainfall across most parts of India in the second half of the 2024 monsoon season (August–September), raising hopes for robust agricultural output and replenished water reservoirs after a mixed performance in June and July. According to the IMD, favorable La Niña conditions developing in the Pacific Ocean, along with a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), are expected to enhance monsoon activity, particularly in central, western, and southern India. However, some northwestern regions, including parts of Punjab and Haryana, may receive below-average rains due to localized weather patterns.

This prediction comes as a relief after an uneven start to the monsoon, with June recording 16% below-normal rainfall and July showing partial recovery. Above-average August–September rains could boost kharif crop yields (e.g., rice, soybeans, cotton) and ease inflation concerns linked to food prices. However, excessive rainfall in flood-prone states like Assam and Bihar may also pose risks of crop damage and displacement. The IMD’s update will be closely monitored by farmers, policymakers, and commodity markets, as the monsoon’s performance remains a critical driver of India’s rural economy and overall GDP growth.