The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced that the southwest monsoon is expected to completely withdraw from Meghalaya by October 14, signaling the end of one of the most deficient monsoon seasons in recent years.
According to IMD data, Meghalaya experienced the “highest rainfall deficit in the country” this year. Between June 1 and July 28, the state received only 690.7 mm of rain against the normal 1,555.4 mm, marking a shortfall of nearly 56 per cent. For the entire June–September period, total rainfall stood at 1,328.5 mm compared to the normal 2,401.4 mm, representing a deficit of approximately 45 per cent.
Meteorologists attributed the low rainfall to shifting monsoon patterns and weakening moisture inflow, factors that have raised concerns over agriculture, water supply, and local ecosystems. Officials warned that the deficient rains could affect crop yields, water availability, and overall ecological balance, urging authorities and communities to remain vigilant.