More than half of India is under dry or drought conditions as the southwest monsoon begins its withdrawal. As of September 16, approximately 52.5% of the country’s area was affected, an increase from 38.9% a month prior. Scientists suggest the current drought spell may be worse in its spread and persistence than the 2015-16 drought.
Rainfall across India between June 1 and September 22 was 15% below normal. Drought stress is particularly widespread in western and southern India, with 79% and 67% of areas respectively under dry or drought conditions. This rainfall deficit impacts kharif crops, with sown area declining compared to last year, especially for rice.
The persistence of dry spells, even after rain, is a distinguishing feature of this drought. This can lead to soil moisture stress, affecting both current kharif crop yields and potentially the upcoming rabi season, which relies on residual soil moisture and reservoir levels.
Source: Down To Earth