El Niño's Impact on India's Monsoon Less Severe Than Expected
El Niño's Impact on India's Monsoon Less Severe Than Expected
IN · Published Sep 1, 2026
• India's monsoon season is nearing its end, with southern and far northwestern regions experiencing poor soil moisture and water supply. Despite a national rainfall deficit of 13% since June 1, the monsoon has been relatively favourable in most parts of the country, except in the south. The ongoing El Niño event, which was initially predicted to be a 'super' event, has not caused as severe dryness and drought as previous significant El Niño events in 1982, 1997, and
• Vegetative Health Indices suggest that crops in India and other affected regions like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia are not as stressed as during past El Niño events. However, the event is expected to persist for several months, with potential for adverse weather impacts to intensify globally.

Impact & Risks

Southern and far northwestern India are facing poor soil moisture and water supply, which could negatively affect farming activities during the upcoming dry season when irrigation demand is high. While the current El Niño has not matched the severity of past events, its prolonged presence could still lead to adverse weather conditions globally, including potential droughts and reduced agricultural productivity in affected regions.

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