The 2024 monsoon season in India, lasting from June to September, witnessed the highest number of extreme rainfall events since 2020, according to a report by research-based consulting agency Climate Trends. Citing data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the report revealed that there were 2,632 instances of “extremely” heavy rainfall (over 204 mm in 24 hours) and 473 instances of “very” heavy rainfall (115-204 mm in 24 hours), setting a new record for intense rainfall.
Key Factors Contributing to Extreme Rainfall
One of the primary reasons behind this increased rainfall intensity was the above-normal occurrence of low-pressure systems. These systems, which typically affect the monsoon, were more frequent and long-lasting than usual, contributing to heavier and more uneven rainfall distribution.
KJ Ramesh, former director general of the IMD, explained the shift, stating, “Weather systems have been travelling through Central India instead of following the northward trend. The longevity of monsoon systems has increased, leading to saturation of soil moisture.”
Uneven Rainfall Distribution and Climate Change Impact
Despite the overall increase in rainfall, its distribution remained highly uneven across India. 167 districts reported a rainfall deficit, while 340 districts experienced normal rainfall. The report emphasized that global warming and anthropogenic activities are exacerbating erratic rainfall patterns, contributing to this unevenness.
Research Scientist Akshay Deoras from the National Centre for Atmospheric Science, UK, linked the changing monsoon patterns to climate change. He stated, “Under climate change scenarios, the monsoon becomes more variable. There are increased chances of intense rainfall when conditions are favorable, but longer dry spells also become more likely.”
Night Temperatures and Climate Observations
The report also highlighted that, despite 108 percent of the Long Period Average (LPA) rainfall being recorded this season, night temperatures in many regions remained unusually warm. The east and northeast regions, along with northwest India, recorded some of the warmest average night temperatures during the monsoon.
This anomaly in night temperatures is concerning and further reflects the changing climate patterns India is experiencing.
Conclusion
The 2024 monsoon season underscores the increasing volatility of India’s weather patterns, with more frequent extreme rainfall events and shifting temperature trends. As climate change continues to impact the region, experts emphasize the need for urgent adaptation strategies to mitigate the effects of these erratic weather systems.
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