The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) warns that El Niño is developing rapidly and is likely to intensify extreme weather during July to September. The WMO assessment points to greater risks of heatwaves and drought across parts of the Indian subcontinent, with downstream impacts on agriculture and water availability. In India, the concern is heightened by an existing rainfall shortfall: June records show a reported 40% rainfall deficit. That deficit has already affected the Kharif season, with crop sowing reduced and overall acreage reportedly down by about 23%.
In response, the government is monitoring the evolving situation and reviewing the extent of the rainfall deficit. It is also advising farmers on water-efficient crop choices to reduce vulnerability in rain-fed regions. The actions include steps to support food grain availability amid the agricultural slowdown. Separately, central teams are scheduled to assess damage in flood-affected Northeast states, indicating ongoing assessment of weather-related impacts even as drought risk is monitored.
