The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast above-normal rainfall across most parts of the country in September, even as this year’s monsoon season has already caused significant destruction due to extreme weather events, according to a PTI report.

In its latest update on Sunday, the IMD said that September's rainfall is expected to be more than 109% of the long-term average of 167.9 mm. Most regions are likely to receive normal to above-normal rainfall. However, some areas in the northeast, the eastern states, parts of southern peninsular India, and pockets of northwest India may receive below-normal rainfall.

Landslides, Flash Floods a Concern in Uttarakhand

During an online press briefing, IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra raised concerns about the risks of landslides and flash floods in Uttarakhand due to heavy rainfall next month.

“Many rivers originate in Uttarakhand. So, heavy rainfall will lead to river flooding, impacting cities and towns downstream. We must stay alert,” he said.

He also warned of potential disruptions in south Haryana, Delhi, and north Rajasthan due to intense rainfall. Additionally, significant rainfall is expected in the upper catchment areas of the Mahanadi River in Chhattisgarh.

August Sees Record Rainfall in Northwest India

August brought exceptional rainfall, especially to northwest India, which recorded 265 mm — the highest for the month since 2001 and the 13th highest since 1901.

June saw 111 mm of rainfall, 42% above normal, while July received 237.4 mm — 13% above the average. August’s 265 mm marks a 34.5% increase compared to the usual 197.1 mm.

This surge in rainfall triggered a series of extreme weather events. Punjab suffered its worst floods in decades, with rivers breaching their banks and submerging large areas of farmland, forcing thousands to evacuate.

In the Himalayan states — Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu and Kashmir — cloudbursts and flash floods caused deadly landslides and widespread destruction.

The IMD attributed the excessive rainfall to an active monsoon season, amplified by frequent western disturbances that intensified rainfall in many regions.