The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast below normal rainfall for Goa and the South Peninsula during the 2026 southwest monsoon season, raising concerns over water availability and agricultural output in the state.
According to the IMD, developing El Niño conditions are likely to influence the monsoon pattern this year, potentially leading to uneven rainfall distribution and prolonged dry spells across several regions.
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Weather experts have warned that the expected monsoon deficiency could impact water resources, farming activities, and overall agricultural productivity in Goa, which heavily depends on seasonal rainfall.
The possibility of El Niño — a climate phenomenon associated with warming ocean surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean — often results in weaker monsoon conditions in India.
Authorities are expected to closely monitor rainfall patterns over the coming months, particularly with regard to reservoir levels, crop planning, and drinking water supply management.
The forecast has also triggered concerns among farmers and environmentalists, who fear that irregular rainfall could affect paddy cultivation and groundwater recharge in several parts of the state.
