New Delhi, July 31, 2025 — India is likely to receive above-normal rainfall during the second half of the southwest monsoon season, covering August and September, according to a forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday. The announcement came during an online press briefing by IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, who stated that most regions of the country are expected to see normal rainfall in August, with a stronger-than-usual spell anticipated in September.
Mohapatra confirmed that overall rainfall across the country during this period is likely to be around 106% of the long-period average of 422.8 mm, marking it as above normal. However, this trend will not be uniform across all regions. “Normal to above-normal rainfall is expected across most parts of the country, except in many parts of the northeast and adjoining areas of east India, as well as some isolated areas in central India and the southwestern peninsular region, where rainfall may remain below normal,” he said.
The positive monsoon outlook follows an already active first half of the season in June and July, which saw above-average precipitation. Some regions, particularly Himachal Pradesh, faced severe weather events such as flash floods due to heavy downpours.
This seasonal forecast is critical for agriculture, water management, and disaster preparedness, especially in a country where the monsoon drives nearly 70% of annual rainfall and plays a key role in economic and rural stability.
