Karnataka Faces Worst Drought in 150 Years Amid Monsoon Deficit
Karnataka Faces Worst Drought in 150 Years Amid Monsoon Deficit
IN · Published Oct 3, 2026
• Karnataka has recorded its worst southwest monsoon rainfall deficit in 55 years, with rainfall from June 1 to September 30, 2026, falling 35% below normal, according to the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC).
• The state received only 551 mm of rainfall against the normal 852 mm during the four-month monsoon season.

Impact & Risks

The severe rainfall deficit has led to drought-like conditions across Karnataka, with significant impacts on agriculture, water resources, and livelihoods. North and south interior Karnataka, along with the Malnad region, are particularly affected, with reduced water availability threatening crop yields and drinking water supplies. Mysuru, with a 59% deficit, faces the most critical situation, while other districts like Vijayanagara (57% deficit) are also severely impacted. The drought conditions could exacerbate economic challenges for farmers and increase water scarcity in urban and rural areas.

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