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North India is currently experiencing an exceptional spell of heavy rainfall, leaving many puzzled about the reasons behind this phenomenon. Explained.
Here are the reasons:
After experiencing a 10% deficiency in rainfall until the end of June, a remarkable turn of events has taken place with the monsoon surging over the west coast and parts of northern India. As of July 9, the India Meteorological Department reported a 2% excess rainfall across the country. Northwest India has witnessed a significant 59% excess rainfall, while central India has seen a 4% excess. However, peninsular India is facing a 23% deficiency, and east and northeast India are experiencing a 17% deficiency.

The recent downpour has resulted in astonishing numbers for specific regions. Himachal Pradesh received a staggering 1,193% excess rainfall, recording 103.8 mm between Saturday and Sunday morning, far surpassing the normal 8 mm. Similarly, Punjab witnessed 1,151% excess rainfall, with 57.5 mm instead of the usual 4.6 mm for the day. This extraordinary rainfall can be attributed to the interaction between a western disturbance and the monsoon system. This interaction has led to heavy to very heavy rainfall over Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, north Punjab and Haryana, and Uttarakhand. The India Meteorological Department had predicted good rainfall for July, and the recent events have indeed bridged the rainfall deficit. Over the past nine days, rainfall has exceeded expectations, with a 24% excess for this period in July.
The recent floods in Himachal Pradesh serve as a stark reminder of the devastating 2013 Uttarakhand floods, as they share similar synoptic conditions. The active monsoon, accompanied by strong low-level easterly winds bringing abundant moisture, combined with upper-level divergence caused by an eastward moving trough, has contributed to the current situation.

In the context of a changing climate, we observe that hilly areas and their surroundings, whether it's the foothills of the Himalayas or the Western Ghats, are particularly vulnerable to heavy rainfall and landslides. The effects of global warming lead to increased moisture content in the atmosphere, and when this moisture encounters the hilly terrain, it is forced to rise, resulting in heavy rainfall. Many regions in India experiencing a rise in extreme rainfall events are precisely those places where orographic lifting plays a significant role in precipitation.

The occurrence of flash floods triggered by cloudbursts and extreme rainfall remains challenging to predict accurately. The sudden and intense nature of these events makes forecasting and early warning systems a complex task. As we grapple with the impacts of climate change, understanding these patterns and their potential consequences becomes crucial in mitigating risks and developing effective disaster response strategies.
The heavy rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, north Punjab, Haryana, and Uttarakhand is a result of the interaction between a western disturbance and the monsoon system. This interaction has led to significant rainfall, ranging from heavy to very heavy, in these regions.
Close monitoring of these events and identification of areas prone to flash floods is recommended. In such hazardous environments, reliance will be placed on radars to monitor and forecast these events. A maximum lead time of approximately 3 hours before such an event can be obtained with the use of radar. Furthermore, the assessment of land use changes and development activities that may have contributed to the exacerbation of these flash floods should be conducted.

"Food, health, and energy security unite BIMSTEC countries! S. Jaishankar highlights shared concerns for a brighter future. Together, let's strengthen collaboration for a more secure and sustainable tomorrow.
The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional organization that came into existence on 6th June 1997, with the signing of the Bangkok Declaration. Originally named BIST-EC (Bangladesh-India-Sri Lanka-Thailand Economic Cooperation), it is now recognized as BIMSTEC and consists of seven Member States. Myanmar joined on 22nd December 1997, followed by the admission of Bhutan and Nepal in February 2004.

Key points from S. Jaishankar's tweet after the BIMSTEC retreat:

Food, health, and energy security are common concerns for BIMSTEC member nations.
Productive, open, and forward-looking discussions were held among colleagues.
The focus was on strengthening resilience and coordination among BIMSTEC members.
Exploring new areas of cooperation and exchanging technology solutions were emphasized.
The common objective is to enhance growth and promote prosperity.
Members agreed to meet more frequently to further develop these ideas.
Regarding the Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) meeting:

S. Jaishankar co-chaired the 12th Mekong Ganga Cooperation meeting in Bangkok.
The meeting was held with the Foreign Minister of Lao PDR, Saleumxay Kommasith.

Heart-wrenching scenes unfold in North India as relentless rains wreak havoc. 😢 The landslides and flash floods have claimed 91 lives in Himachal Pradesh, leaving us in shock and sorrow. 💔








While several states in North India are grappling with the fury of the monsoon season, it's important to acknowledge that a different story is unfolding in other parts of the country. As we witness the destructive impact of the western disturbance combined with the monsoon rains in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Delhi-NCR, our hearts go out to those affected by the massive property damage and tragic loss of lives.

However, in a surprising turn of events, some southern states like Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana, as well as Jharkhand, Bihar, and northeastern states such as Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, and Meghalaya are still experiencing a deficiency in rainfall. A recent report by Hindustan Times, Livemint's sister publication, sheds light on this contrasting situation.

According to data provided by the India Meteorological Department, except for Tamil Nadu, all southern states have received below-average rainfall since the monsoon season commenced on June 1. Although there was heavy rainfall in Kerala and Karnataka's coastal areas during the first week of July, the rest of the mainland remained dry. This significant lack of rain has led to delays in the sowing of crops in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, parts of Karnataka, and Kerala.

The disparity in rainfall patterns across different regions of India serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the monsoon season and its impact on agricultural practices, water resources, and livelihoods. As we acknowledge and address the challenges faced by those affected by excessive rainfall, it is equally important to extend our support and attention to the regions grappling with rain deficiency. Together, we can navigate these diverse monsoon experiences and strive for a more balanced and sustainable future.