IMD expects El-Nino to gather pace throughout remaining period of Southwest Monsoon season

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that moderate El Nino conditions are present in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, with sea surface temperature anomalies above normal. These conditions are predicted to strengthen during the Southwest Monsoon season. The Monsoon Mission Coupled Forecast System (MMCFS) forecasts continued strengthening of El Nino conditions throughout the rest of the Southwest Monsoon period. As of the week ending 19 August, rainfall across India was 16% below the Long Period Average (LPA) overall. From 1 June to 19 August 2026, rainfall was also under normal levels, at -13% of LPA. Rainfall in East and Northwest India was 25% below LPA, South Peninsula was down 22%, and Northwest India had a 10% drop. Central India saw a 1% decrease compared to LPA.