Heavy rainfall has swept across India, particularly during the month of August, leading to significant impacts on daily life and the climate. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this August recorded around 287.1 mm of rain, marking about 16 percent above the normal levels of 248.1 mm, making it the second highest August rainfall since 2001. This weather anomaly has raised concerns, especially as parts of the country, like Northeast India and the southern states, experienced deficient rainfall amid a backdrop of heavy precipitation elsewhere.
Regions like Delhi have felt the effects of this unpredictable weather. On August 1, the capital saw 107.6 mm of rain within just 24 hours, which is one-fifth of the average precipitation expected for the entire monsoon season from July to September. The month concluded with 26 days of rainfall, the highest number recorded since 2011. The Safdarjung station in Delhi reported cumulative rainfall of 390.3 mm for August, which is 70 percent above its usual levels.
Many residents found themselves dealing with waterlogging and disrupted transport, as the streets became rivers from the downpour. The rainfall had significant impacts on the temperature as well, with the maximum dipping to 28.8 degrees Celsius after the heavy downpour on Thursday, which is the lowest temperature observed for the month.
The situation wasn’t isolated to Delhi alone. Pune also endured its fair share of extreme weather, with August 2024 rainfall doubling the usual levels for the month. Instead of the expected 142.9 mm, Pune recorded an astonishing 303 mm of rain by the end of August. Meteorologist Dr. S. D. Sanap attributed this drastic increase to persistent low-pressure areas over the Bay of Bengal and the coastline, which enhanced monsoonal events, leading to the record-breaking numbers.
August 2024 has not only redefined rainfall expectations but has also highlighted discrepancies across states. The IMD's report pointed out how states like Kerala, Vidarbha, and regions within the northeastern area recorded below-normal rainfall levels, contrasting sharply with the heavy rains experienced by sectors like Northwest India, which observed cumulative levels of 253.9 mm, also the second highest rainfall registered since 2001.
According to Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the IMD Director General, there’s reason to anticipate continued unusual weather patterns as the monsoon trough remains positioned atypically, possibly grasping some of the central regions such as Rajasthan and moving toward the foothills of the Himalayas. This raises concerns about the balance of rainfall across various regions, especially as significant downpours could lead to flooding, waterborne diseases, and significant economic ramifications.
Forecasts for September predict sustained rain activity due to the presence of various low-pressure systems, intensifying expectations for above-normal rainfall. The IMD has issued yellow alerts across several districts, indicating possible rainfall accumulation along with thunderstorms. This trend is likely to continue through the first week of September, coinciding with the Ganesh festival, when people celebrate with elaborate festivities, potentially disrupted by weather conditions.
Further illustrating the climate crisis, August 2024's weather events align with growing scientific consensus about the need for urgent action against climate change. These occurrences not only reflect immediate impacts on agriculture and infrastructure but also hint at long-term shifts, creating unpredictability for farmers and risk-laden flashpoints for urban environments. Hence, as September approaches, the nation watches closely, with residents bracing for more unpredictable weather and authorities preparing for both celebrations and calamities.
Overall, this August's rains have prompted both relief and concern across India. While regions experienced bountiful rains, reflecting the powerful monsoon currents, others languished without adequate supply. The variable nature of the current season has led to increasing discussions on water conservancy, management, and preparation for future patterns. With environmental challenges growing, it is clear the country needs to adapt its policies and planning to fit this new normal.
