Monsoon’s retreat stalls four days behind schedule in northwest India
The monsoon’s withdrawal from northwest India has stalled since September 24, four days behind schedule. Despite initial progress, many areas in Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh have experienced intermittent rain over the past three days.
Initially, the withdrawal was limited to south-western Punjab and Haryana, covering Fazilka and Sirsa districts. Normally, the monsoon fully withdraws from these states by September 25.
According to India Meteorological Department (IMD), Punjab’s September rainfall was 48% deficient, increasing to 50% over the next three days. Himachal Pradesh’s rainfall has caught up, while Haryana has recorded a 38% surplus.
Seasonal deficiencies persist with shortfall since June 1 being 29% in Punjab, 19% in Himachal Pradesh and 4% in Haryana.
IMD forecasts continued rainfall in the western Himalayan region, with scattered light to moderate rainfall expected over the next three to four days, followed by dry weather.
