Monsoon 2026 ends with 12.6% deficit, worst since 2015
Why in the news
At a press conference on 30 September 2026, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reviewed the southwest monsoon season and released its outlook for October and the October-December period. The season closed with a clear rain shortfall, the weakest since 2015.
Key facts
- Season total: 759.4 mm against a normal of 868.6 mm, or 87% of the Long Period Average (LPA).
- Deficit: 12.6%, the lowest seasonal rain since 2015.
- El Nino is expected to peak in November; IMD’s chief noted its effect was greater in southern and eastern India.
- October 2026 rain is forecast below normal, under 85% of LPA.
| Month | Rain as % of LPA |
|---|---|
| June | 65% |
| July | 101% |
| August | 84% |
| September | 92% |
Regional picture
East and Northeast India got 1,016.3 mm, the lowest since 1901, and the South Peninsula received 542.0 mm. Odisha was the only subdivision with excess rain, helped by low pressure systems.
About IMD and LPA
The IMD issues India’s monsoon assessments and forecasts. Rainfall is compared against the Long Period Average (LPA), the benchmark for normal rain.
Exam angle
- Know the terms LPA, deficit and El Nino, which IMD says hit the south and east hardest this year.
- The season measured here runs from June to September.
- October-December forecast: below normal for most regions, except Northwest India and parts of the southern peninsula.