India’s monsoon — once predictable and rhythmic — is becoming increasingly erratic. From flash floods in Himachal to drought-like conditions in Karnataka, the 2025 season has shown that the Indian monsoon is no longer what it used to be. But why is this happening? And what does it mean for farmers, cities, and everyday life?
Let’s break it down.
What’s Changing in the Monsoon Pattern?
Traditionally, the Southwest Monsoon arrives in Kerala around June 1st and covers the country by mid-July. But recent years have witnessed:
Delayed onset or early withdrawal
Uneven rainfall distribution – excessive in some regions, deficient in others
Short bursts of heavy rain leading to floods
Long dry spells, especially during critical sowing weeks
In 2025, the monsoon arrived later than usual and has brought intense but scattered rainfall, leaving several agricultural belts vulnerable.
What’s Behind These Monsoon Shifts?
1. Climate Change
Rising global temperatures are altering ocean currents and wind systems that drive the monsoon.
For every 1°C rise in temperature, the atmosphere holds 7% more moisture — leading to sudden cloudbursts and extreme rain events.
2. El Niño and La Niña
These Pacific Ocean phenomena impact the Indian Ocean Dipole and monsoon intensity.
In 2025, a mild El Niño has reduced rainfall in eastern and southern India.
3. Urbanization and Deforestation
Cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai have seen unplanned growth that alters local weather patterns, increases surface temperatures, and creates urban heat islands, affecting rainfall patterns.
Impact on Agriculture and Water Security
Crop failures: Farmers are unable to sow or harvest in time
Water scarcity: Irregular monsoon affects reservoir levels and groundwater recharge
Food inflation: Prices of pulses, grains, and vegetables rise due to poor yields
Rural distress: Irregular incomes lead to increased debt among small farmers
Urban Chaos: Floods, Traffic, and Broken Infrastructure
Cities are facing the worst of both worlds — flash floods during short heavy rains and water shortages during dry spells.
In July 2025, Bengaluru recorded 244 mm of rain in a single day, overwhelming its outdated drainage systems. Meanwhile, Chennai faced power cuts and traffic jams due to waterlogging.
What Can Be Done?
Invest in climate-resilient agriculture — drought-resistant crops, early-warning systems
Revive water bodies and wetlands — to manage excess rainwater
Implement urban flood management — stormwater drains, rainwater harvesting
Strengthen monsoon forecasting models with AI and satellite inputs
India’s monsoon needs not just prayers but policy action.
Final Thoughts
The monsoon is more than just a season — it’s the heartbeat of India’s agriculture, economy, and ecosystem. But that heartbeat is now erratic, and unless we adapt quickly, both rural livelihoods and urban lives will continue to suffer.
Climate change is here, and the monsoon is its messenger
Published on : 4th August
Published by : SMITA
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