Monsoon 66% below normal in week ended 5 August

Rainfall activity likely in central and northern areas in 2-3 days

The rainfall for the week-ended 5 August 2009 is reported to be 66% below normal at 23.5 millimeter (mm). Monsoon rains between 1 June 2009 to 4 August 2009 were 25% below normal.

According to reports, the average rainfall in July 2009 had been near normal but it had been below normal for northern states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab and Haryana even in July 2009.

A media report quoted a weather department official as saying that increase in rainfall activity is likely in central and adjoining northern plains in 2-3 days.