With 42% deficit rainfall, Andhra Pradesh is third worst-hit State in India this monsoon season

With the Southwest Monsoon nearing its withdrawal phase, Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the country’s third most rainfall-deficient State this season, largely due to prevailing El Niño conditions.

According to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), of the total 36 States and Union Territories in India, 17 have reported ‘normal’ rainfall, 16 reported ‘deficient’ rainfall, two ‘excess’ and one ‘large excess’, between June 1 and September 16.

Meghalaya leads the country in rainfall deficit at 59%, followed by Manipur (43%), and Arunachal Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh (42%). Punjab and Puducherry follow closely, with 40% rainfall deficit.