New Delhi: India recorded a significant shortfall in rainfall during January, accompanied by warmer-than-normal temperatures across much of the country, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Media reports indicate that the nation received 31.5 per cent below-average rainfall for the month, with deficits most pronounced in East, Northeast, and Central India.
At a press briefing, IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra Jenamani highlighted regional disparities in precipitation. Northwest India recorded 12.1 per cent less rainfall, while East and Northeast India experienced a staggering 86.2 per cent shortfall, making it the most affected region. Central India also suffered, with rainfall plunging 79.4 per cent below normal. In contrast, South Peninsular India fared relatively better, recording 10.9 per cent above its long-period average, receiving near-normal precipitation.
The IMD pointed out that the rainfall deficit has implications for soil moisture, agriculture, and water resources, particularly in regions heavily reliant on winter rains. Media sources report that farmers in East and Northeast India have been expressing concern over delayed crop sowing and irrigation shortages due to the unusually dry conditions.
On the temperature front, January 2026 was warmer than normal nationwide, continuing a trend of rising winter temperatures observed in recent years. The all-India mean temperature stood at 18.31°C, 0.28°C above the long-term average, while the maximum and minimum temperatures averaged 24.77°C and 11.86°C, respectively, both exceeding typical norms.
Region-wise data showed Northwest India recording a mean temperature of 12.41°C, slightly above normal, while East and Northeast India averaged 17.24°C, nearly one degree higher than usual. Central India recorded 20.44°C, and South Peninsular India registered 24.20°C, both exceeding their respective long-term averages, according to IMD figures shared with media outlets.
Experts and meteorologists noted that the combination of below-average rainfall and warmer temperatures may exacerbate water stress and impact winter crops in affected regions, emphasizing the need for close monitoring and efficient water management strategies.
According to multiple media sources, the IMD will continue to track precipitation and temperature patterns closely, issuing advisories to farmers and local administrations to mitigate the impact of these unusual weather trends.