East and northeast regions record driest monsoon since 1901 at 1,017.1 mm
GS1History · Society · Geography· Geophysical phenomena (earthquakes, cyclones, volcanoes)· Prelims·
Climate variability and El Niño impacts on monsoon patterns: a GS1 Geography and climate change study.
Why in news
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that India's 2026 southwest monsoon ended at 759.4 mm, with the east and northeast region recording its driest monsoon since 1901.
Background
The 2026 monsoon recorded 759.4 mm of rain, which is 12.6% below the 868.6 mm normal. The east and northeast region recorded 1,017.1 mm, marking the lowest rainfall in that region since systematic records began in 1901.
Facts for Prelims
- FactIndia's 2026 southwest monsoon rainfall was 759.4 mm, representing 87% of the Long Period Average (LPA).
- FactThe east and northeast region recorded 1,017.1 mm of rainfall, its driest monsoon since 1901.
- FactThe southern peninsula recorded 542 mm of rainfall, the fourth lowest since 1901.
- S&TThe IMD attributed the subdued monsoon rainfall to one of the strongest El Niños in recent history.
- BodyThe India Meteorological Department (IMD) is the body responsible for systematic monsoon records and forecasting.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the 2026 southwest monsoon in India, consider the following statements:
- The east and northeast region recorded its driest monsoon since 1901.
- The total southwest monsoon rainfall was 759.4 mm, representing 95% of the Long Period Average.
- The IMD attributed the subdued monsoon rainfall to one of the strongest El Niños in recent history.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)2 only
- (b)1 and 2 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only — Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Statement 2 is incorrect: The rainfall represented 87% of the Long Period Average.
For Mains
Q. Analyze the impact of El Niño and climate variability on the Indian monsoon and suggest measures to mitigate the risks of diminishing rainfall in the Northeast region.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Climate variability: Impact of El Niño on monsoon patterns and regional rainfall distribution
- Agricultural risk: Vulnerability of Northeast and Southern peninsula crops to prolonged dry spells
- Forecasting accuracy: Challenges in regional and monthly rainfall prediction despite accurate seasonal estimates
Keywords: El Niño · Monsoon variability · Climate change · Hydrological stress · IMD forecasting
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.