The two States of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are staring at a possible drought year ahead with both regions recording deficit rainfall since the onset of the south west monsoon in the country. While the deficit rainfall in Telangana as on July 2 from June 1, was 62 per cent, the deficit in coastal Andhra Pradesh was 68 per cent and in Rayalseema – five per cent.
Are there any chances of revival of monsoon in July? “According to our reading of the situation and weather parameters, there will be less rain in July and August too. So, chances of making up for the deficit rainfall during these two months are remote. This year could be considered a drought year if things continue like this,” said Director, IMD, Hyderabad, K. Sitaram.
Last year, during the same period, the excess amount of rainfall was between 30 to 35 per cent in the erstwhile Andhra Pradesh. Now, however, all the 10 districts in Telangana have received deficit rainfall. “For us, places like Agumbe in Karnataka are benchmarks as they traditionally receive good rains during monsoons. This year, such areas are in the deficit rainfall list. I am not seeing any chance of good rain in the coming days,” IMD Director said. Without exception, all the Telangana districts have received deficit rainfall. In fact, Khammam is the worst hit with deficit rainfall of 85 per cent while in Medak, it is at 80 per cent. There is a 48 per cent deficit rainfall in Hyderabad while in Ranga Reddy district, it is put at 61 per cent. “Anantapur, Chittoor and Kurnool are the only places that have recorded some showers in the last one month. Rest of the nine districts in coastal AP and 10 in Telangana have deficit showers. At present, even the progression of the south west monsoons towards the central parts of India is very slow. While there are a few low pressure areas at Bay of Bengal, the activity of monsoons over Arabian Sea is very weak, which is having its impact on the overall performance of monsoons,” Mr. Sitaram said.
