Bhubaneswar: This year, the monsoon is expected to arrive on time in Odisha, bringing good rainfall in June. Typically, the monsoon season in Odisha starts in June, but the rainfall in the first month often gets delayed due to erratic weather conditions, which sometimes delays agricultural activities. However, experts predict that this year the monsoon will be timely, and the rainfall will be favorable for the state.
According to meteorologist Professor Surendranath Pashupala, based on global weather conditions and oceanic data, this year’s monsoon is expected to bring the right amount of rain to Odisha. Farmers are advised to prepare for timely cultivation.
In early April, the sea temperature was observed to be at +0 degrees, and it is expected to remain around +0.8 degrees. It is predicted that by September, the temperature may exceed 0.8 degrees by 40%. Therefore, the possibility of a normal rainfall pattern for April and May remains high.
On the other hand, the likelihood of El Niño affecting the monsoon this year is low, as typically, during El Niño years, rainfall tends to be reduced. Another factor influencing the monsoon this year is the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), which in early April was at +0.4 degrees, but is expected to gradually decrease to -0.4 degrees by August or September. Normally, a positive IOD supports good rainfall during the monsoon. Thus, the possibility of below-normal rainfall in April is likely, but the monsoon should arrive on time with favorable rainfall in June.
Professor Pashupala also added that the weather conditions in May and June should further support a successful monsoon season.