Context:
The northeast monsoon set in earlier than usual over South India on October 16, ahead of its normal onset date (October 20 ± 7 days). This monsoon is critical for agriculture in Tamil Nadu, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema, and parts of Karnataka and Kerala. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast “above normal” rainfall (>112% of Long Period Average) for the season.
Key Highlights / Details
Importance of the Northeast Monsoon
- Accounts for 48% of annual rainfall in Tamil Nadu and over 30% in Andhra Pradesh.
- Vital for Rabi crop sowing, reservoir recharge, and groundwater replenishment.
- Supports crops like paddy, pulses, sugarcane, groundnut, and millets.
Associated Weather Risks
- The northeast monsoon normally brings at least three cyclonic systems over the Bay of Bengal.
- Increased frequency of cloudbursts (IITM study).
- Urban flooding threat in coastal cities like Chennai, Nellore, and Tirupati.
Government Preparedness
- Tamil Nadu developing real-time flood forecasting system for Chennai.
- Reservoir management being enhanced to regulate water discharge.
- Disaster management teams mobilized across southern States.
- Improved inter-agency coordination has reduced loss of lives in recent years.
Agricultural Concerns
- Reports of urea shortage affecting farmers in Tamil Nadu and other States.
- Tamil Nadu CM highlighted fertilizer shortage in a letter to the Prime Minister.
- The Union Agriculture Ministry has enhanced urea allocation for October to tackle demand.
Relevant Prelims Points
- Northeast Monsoon: Also known as Retreating Monsoon (October–December).
- IMD: Agency under Ministry of Earth Sciences.
- Cyclone formation region: Bay of Bengal is more active than Arabian Sea.
- Long Period Average (LPA): Based on 50-year average (1971–2020) rainfall data.
Relevant Mains Points
- Climate variability and extreme rainfall events increasing due to climate change.
- Need for urban flood management and improvement of stormwater drains.
- Role of community participation in preventing dumping and waterbody encroachment.
- Importance of disaster preparedness and climate-resilient agriculture.