Erratic monsoon

Aggregate rain doesn't reflect the true picture

This year’s monsoon, which is retreating after the second-longest run on record, has managed to deliver statistically normal rain even though its distribution over time and space has been highly erratic. Short but intense downpours, interspersed with longish dry spells, have been the distinctive feature of this monsoon. It, however, did not disturb the agricultural calendar, allowing normal planting of crops and ensuring good crop stands. Most of the reservoirs have been adequately replenished to ensure ample water availability for irrigation, industry, power generation, and domestic consumption. In fact, thanks to the belated exit, the soils are expected to hold