Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Jun 21: Although the monsoon season arrived on schedule in coastal districts, its intensity has noticeably diminished. Contrary to the IMD's earlier forecast of heavy rains this year, the weather pattern has shifted.

According to weather experts, the high temperatures in northern India have depleted the moisture crucial for the southwest monsoons, resulting in subdued rainfall.

"The Remal cyclone in West Bengal initially disrupted monsoon activity by diverting much of its moisture," explained a meteorologist. "Subsequently, the persistent heat in northern India further weakened the monsoon's strength, leading to sporadic and moderate rainfall on some days."

The Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority reported that, in June, only isolated parts of coastal districts have experienced rainfall, with the usual monsoon patterns notably absent from both coastal and Malnad regions.

The IMD forecasts a potential resurgence of heavy rains from June 21 to 28 in coastal districts, with a subsequent decrease in intensity through July. Earlier expectations of La Nina's arrival were anticipated to bring substantial rainfall following the disappearance of El Nino in March and April.

"Despite the timely arrival of the monsoon, its momentum typically accelerates towards the end of June," remarked Saishekhar, a weather analyst. "Last June, we observed a similar trend of delayed heavy rains, followed by an intense monsoon in July. This year's monsoon trajectory remains unpredictable."

Data from June 1 to 19, 2024, indicates a rainfall deficit in Dakshina Kannada district (33%), Udupi (30%), and Uttara Kannada (23%), underscoring the region's current precipitation shortfall compared to historical averages.