IMD Forecasts Below Normal Rainfall for Andhra Pradesh

Kurnool: India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that the upcoming southwest monsoon season is likely to be below normal, raising concerns within government and farmers across the state.

According to the latest IMD assessment, several districts may record 25 to 30 per cent deficit rainfall between June and October this year. The department has indicated that the country as a whole may receive less than normal rainfall.

A senior Agriculture department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “It is difficult at this stage to fully assess the impact. But for a state like Andhra Pradesh that is dependent on agriculture, especially regions like Rayalaseema, a weak monsoon could create serious challenges.”

Experts warn that paddy cultivation may decline, particularly in coastal districts and parts of Krishna district, where water-intensive crops dominate. “If rainfall falls short, farmers may be forced to scale down paddy acreage,” an agriculture expert noted.

The IMD attributed the expected shortfall to the El Niño phenomenon, which typically suppresses monsoon activity over the Indian subcontinent. Even fertile districts, such as West Godavari and East Godavari, are likely to witness reduced rainfall this year.

Rainfall in Rayalaseema districts, including Nandyal, Kurnool, Anantapur, and Kadapa, between June and October is expected to be significantly below normal. These months are usually crucial for both Kharif and subsequent Rabi crop planning.

Nandyal district Horticulture officer A. Nagaraju advised farmers to adapt to the changing conditions. “In view of the El Niño impact, we are advising farmers to opt for drought-resistant and short-duration crops instead of depending on water-intensive cultivation,” he said.

Farmers cultivating horticulture crops in districts like Kurnool, Nandyal and Kadapa are on the edge.

A scientist from the Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Nandyal, observed that the situation this year appears unusual. “Conditions are slightly different this year. Farmers must focus on crops that can withstand low rainfall. The priority now should be to minimise crop losses, rather than maximise yield,” the scientist stated.

Adding to the concerns, groundwater levels have declined sharply in several parts of the state, compounding the potential impact of a weak monsoon.