Meghalaya, the Abode of the Clouds, is experiencing a drier than normal early monsoon period, according to data from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).
According to the latest data, Meghalaya has recorded a 48 percent shortfall in rainfall between June 1 and July 5, receiving only 453.3mm of rain compared to the normal average of 873.1mm for the period.
This categorises Meghalaya’s condition as “deficient” and could have significant implications for agriculture, water resources and forest ecosystems in the state. Although the monsoon arrived slightly earlier than usual this year, the hopes of a good level of rainfall did not carry through into June and July.
It is not just Meghalaya but large parts of the North East that are suffering from erratic weather. Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim are all facing serious rainfall deficits of 32 percent, 37 percent and 35 percent respectively.
Lower than normal rainfall will likely have an impact on the state’s kharif crops, particularly rice, which is highly dependent on consistent monsoon rains. Water tables may also decline, posing risks for both drinking water supply and hydroelectric power generation. Reduced rain can also disturb groundwater recharge, forest growth and even the limestone caves of Meghalaya, which rely on stable hydrological cycles.
