Importance of the Northeast Monsoon
The northeast monsoon follows the southwest monsoon and is characterized by a reversal of winds, bringing rainfall to specific regions, particularly in southern India.
It primarily affects coastal Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and parts of southern Karnataka, with Tamil Nadu relying on it for most of its rainfall.
The northeast monsoon accounts for about 11% of India’s annual rainfall, which may seem limited but is crucial for certain regions.
Impact on Agriculture:
It significantly influences the productivity of key crops like rice and maize, especially in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
Agricultural Variability: Variations in rainfall (up to 25%) can lead to years of abundant rainfall followed by dry spells, impacting crop yields.
Intense rainfall during the northeast monsoon can cause severe urban flooding, as seen in Chennai in 2015, leading to loss of life and property.
Enhanced forecasting systems have made predictions about the northeast monsoon more reliable, but further focus is needed on modeling its urban flooding impacts.
Uncertainties related to climate change necessitate better disaster management strategies and integration of resilience into budgeting for urban areas.
Current forecasts suggest above-normal rainfall this year, which could be beneficial for agriculture if conditions align with expectations.
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