The Southwest Monsoon has finally started advancing after a prolonged pause, but the damage from its delayed progress is already visible.

India’s rainfall deficit has widened to 46%, making June 2026 one of the driest starts to the monsoon season in nearly 150 years.

Large parts of Central, East and Northwest India continue to face severe rainfall shortages, raising concerns for agriculture and water resources.

The sluggish monsoon was largely caused by the absence of strong low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal and an inactive monsoon trough.

While weather models indicate a gradual revival of rainfall during the second half of June, experts warn that recovering the accumulated deficit will be difficult.

Regional variations are expected, with some areas receiving improved rainfall while others remain significantly rain-deficient.