Goa records driest monsoon in 50 years
• Goa has experienced its driest monsoon season in five decades, with rainfall between June 1 and September 30 totalling only 2,055.4 mm, compared to the seasonal average of 3,007.8 mm. This represents a deficit of approximately 32%, the highest recorded in the state since
• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributes this significant shortfall to various factors, including a cyclone over the South China Sea in June that redirected moisture towards the Bay of Bengal, weak jet streams, and underperformance during the peak monsoon month of July. Historical data from 1980–2026 confirms that this year’s deficit is the largest in the last 50 years.
Impact & Risks
The rainfall deficit has implications for agriculture, water resources, and overall ecological balance in Goa. Farmers relying on monsoon rains for irrigation may face challenges, potentially affecting crop yields. Additionally, reduced rainfall could impact groundwater recharge and water availability for domestic and industrial use. The prolonged dry spells during July and insufficient rainfall in August and September have exacerbated the situation, leaving limited opportunities to recover the deficit.
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