Kerala faces water shortage due to lack of rain
Kerala has received much less rain than usual this year, which could lead to a drought. Experts worry that a weather pattern called El Niño may keep the state dry in the coming months.
What is happening with the weather
The state of Kerala is facing a serious problem with its monsoon rain. Usually, the state gets plenty of water during the summer months to keep crops growing and water tanks full. This year, the rainfall numbers are much lower than expected. By the end of July, the state had received significantly less rain than the normal amount needed for this time of year.
Why is this a problem
When the rain does not fall as expected, it creates a risk of a drought. A drought happens when there is not enough water for people to drink, for farmers to water their crops, or for electricity plants to function. Farmers are particularly worried that their harvests will fail if the rain does not return soon.
What are experts saying
Meteorologists are pointing to a weather event known as El Niño. This is a natural pattern in the Pacific Ocean that changes weather patterns across the world. In many parts of India, El Niño is known to make monsoon seasons weaker and drier. Because of this, the coming months of August and September are also expected to have very little rain. Some important facts about the situation include:
- Kerala received 853.8 mm of rain compared to the normal 1,301.7 mm.
- The current rainfall deficit is roughly 34 percent.
- Government officials are monitoring water levels in local dams.
- Farmers are being warned to prepare for possible dry conditions ahead.
What happens next
The government is keeping a close watch on the weather patterns to see if the situation improves. Residents are being encouraged to save water whenever possible. If the dry spell continues, the state may need to put plans in place to manage its water supply more carefully.