Southwest Monsoon 2026
India’s southwest monsoon 2026 ended with a significant rainfall deficit, recording 759.4 mm of rainfall, compared with the normal 868.6 mm. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this represents a 12.6% deficit, with rainfall at around 87% of the Long Period Average (LPA).
The 2026 monsoon was the driest since 2015, when India recorded 758.2 mm of rainfall during the southwest monsoon season. The latest figures highlight continuing concerns over changing rainfall patterns and their regional impacts.
Key Highlights of Southwest Monsoon 2026
The overall rainfall deficit was accompanied by significant regional variations across the country.
East and Northeast India
The east and northeast regions experienced their driest monsoon since 1901. This is particularly significant because the region has historically received substantial rainfall during the southwest monsoon.
The trend is also described as being consistent with the rainfall patterns observed in recent years.
Southern Peninsula
The southern peninsula recorded its fourth-lowest monsoon rainfall since 1901. Such prolonged variations in rainfall can have implications for agriculture, water availability and regional ecosystems.
Overall Rainfall Deficit
India received 759.4 mm of rainfall against the normal 868.6 mm, resulting in a deficit of 12.6%.
The monsoon’s performance is important because southwest monsoon rainfall plays a major role in India’s agricultural production, water resources and overall economic activity.
What is the Long Period Average?
The Long Period Average (LPA) is a reference value used by the IMD to compare seasonal rainfall with its historical average. In 2026, rainfall was around 87% of the LPA, indicating a substantially below-normal monsoon season.
October Weather Outlook
According to the information provided, October 2026 is expected to be hotter and drier than usual across most parts of India. This could further influence water availability, agricultural conditions and weather patterns following the deficient monsoon.
Significance for India
A deficient southwest monsoon can have wider implications for agriculture, irrigation, reservoirs, groundwater recharge and rural livelihoods. Regional disparities are equally important because rainfall shortages may affect states differently depending on their dependence on monsoon precipitation.
The 2026 monsoon therefore highlights the importance of monitoring rainfall variability, water management and seasonal weather trends.
Conclusion
The Southwest Monsoon 2026 ended with 759.4 mm of rainfall, 12.6% below normal, making it India’s lowest monsoon rainfall since 2015. The particularly severe deficits in east and northeast India and the southern peninsula underline the growing importance of understanding regional rainfall variability. Continued monitoring by the IMD and effective water-resource planning will remain important as India enters the post-monsoon period.
FAQs: Southwest Monsoon 2026
How much rainfall did India receive during the Southwest Monsoon 2026?
India received 759.4 mm of rainfall during the 2026 southwest monsoon against the normal 868.6 mm, resulting in a 12.6% rainfall deficit.
Why was the Southwest Monsoon 2026 significant?
The 2026 monsoon was the driest since 2015, highlighting concerns over rainfall variability and its potential impact on agriculture, water resources and regional ecosystems.
Which regions experienced the most significant rainfall deficits?
The east and northeast regions recorded their driest monsoon since 1901, while the southern peninsula recorded its fourth-lowest monsoon rainfall since 1901.
What is the Long Period Average (LPA)?
The Long Period Average (LPA) is a historical rainfall reference used by the IMD to assess seasonal rainfall. In 2026, India’s monsoon rainfall was around 87% of the LPA.
What are the implications of a deficient monsoon for India?
A deficient monsoon can affect agriculture, irrigation, reservoir levels, groundwater recharge and rural livelihoods, making effective water-resource planning and weather monitoring important.
