New Delhi: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted less than normal rainfall over the next two months.
Laxman Singh Rathore, director general of the IMD, said that rainfall could be deficient by 8-10% in July and August respectively.
"June has received a good amount of rainfall. It was also sowing season. But then we should not be complacent and there should be a contingency plan in place as July and August may not have as good rainfall as June. There is, however, some respite as the pre-monsoon showers have helped fill up reservoirs to some extent. There was good rainfall in June, which is a crucial month for sowing," Rathore said.
The weather department has also advised the Agriculture Ministry to keep ready a contingency plan.
However, Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency, has predicted "above normal" rainfall (104%) in July, "normal" rainfall (99%) in August and (96%) in September.
Anything less than 90% of Long Period Average (LPA) is considered as 'deficient' rainfall, 90-96% is 'below normal', 96-104% 'normal', 104 to 110% is above normal and anything over it is 'excess'.
The IMD has predicted 88% normal rainfall this year, which is "deficient". Many parts, especially north-west India, may witness deficient monsoon. However, June received 28% more than normal rainfall.
(With PTI Inputs)
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