Skymet predicts below-normal rainfall in north after July 24

NEW DELHI: Weather service provider Skymet says there could be below-normal spread of rainfall this month-end across north India. However, central India is expected to see good rains for the next two-and-a-half months.

A short break in rains during July is conducive for the kharif crop, particularly paddy, cotton and oilseeds. “Northern states could expect a strong surge of rains from July 19-24 before it slows down,” said Jatin Singh, CEO, Skymet Weather Services. He added that the July rainfall was in deficit for most northern states with the exception of Uttarakhand that had received 16 per cent above-normal rains.

Meteorologists say a break in rains is required to ensure progress in sowing and crop growth. Inundated fields lead to logging with the risk of a higher infestation in plants. “Current rains this year have been very beneficial for the standing crops. Except for the northeastern states, all other parts of the country have received normal rains,” said DS Pai, director (long-range forecast), India Meteorological Department (IMD).