📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Prime Minister's Office
Weather
Meghalaya Faces 60% Rainfall Shortfall as El Nino Hits; Early Rains Offer Relief
✍️ Hindustan Times
🗓 07 Oct 2026, 05:02 PM
👁 22
Meghalaya is experiencing a 60 % deficit in rainfall due to the El Nino phenomenon, but Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said early rains have helped the state cope better.
Meghalaya is grappling with a 60 % shortfall in rainfall, a situation attributed to the ongoing El Nino cycle that has disrupted normal monsoon patterns. The deficit has already impacted water reservoirs and irrigation systems across the state.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma remarked that the early monsoon showers, which arrived before the official onset, have mitigated some of the adverse effects by replenishing groundwater and reducing immediate drought stress.
Agricultural officials warn that the reduced rainfall could jeopardise the sowing of key crops such as rice and maize, potentially leading to lower yields and higher market prices.
The state government has urged farmers to adopt water‑conserving techniques and has announced a relief package to support affected households.
Despite the overall deficit, the early rains are seen as a silver lining, providing a buffer that may help the state navigate the remainder of the monsoon season.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma remarked that the early monsoon showers, which arrived before the official onset, have mitigated some of the adverse effects by replenishing groundwater and reducing immediate drought stress.
Agricultural officials warn that the reduced rainfall could jeopardise the sowing of key crops such as rice and maize, potentially leading to lower yields and higher market prices.
The state government has urged farmers to adopt water‑conserving techniques and has announced a relief package to support affected households.
Despite the overall deficit, the early rains are seen as a silver lining, providing a buffer that may help the state navigate the remainder of the monsoon season.