Kerala likely to face long dry spell in November
A rainfall deficit could increase pressure on the state's reservoirs following a deficient southwest monsoon.
Kerala is expected to experience a prolonged dry period through most of November, according to a report by The Hindu. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast below-normal rainfall for the state during the month.
The IMD's extended-range forecast suggests bleak rainfall prospects for the next two weeks, except for light showers in isolated areas caused by an easterly wave towards the end of this week. Significant weather systems are unlikely to develop in the Bay of Bengal after Cyclone Murasu reaches the Andhra Pradesh coast by Monday night or early Tuesday.
Neetha K. Gopal, Director of IMD, Kerala, said rainfall activity will likely pause after this week as easterly winds weaken. She noted that the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) is moving into a suppressed phase for the region, making it uncertain if major weather systems will form in November.
As of November 2, the state recorded 275.3 mm of rainfall, which is 15 per cent below the normal 323.6 mm for the period. The southwest monsoon also ended with a 28 per cent deficit.
The anticipated dry spell may strain reservoirs that rely on the northeast monsoon to replenish levels. The Idukki reservoir currently holds 62.74 per cent of its capacity, while the Banasura Sagar reservoir in Wayanad is at 78.33 per cent capacity.
A further shortfall in rainfall during the remainder of the northeast monsoon season could impact the state's power and agricultural sectors.