Tripura, a state in northeastern India, has seen a significant rainfall deficit of 17% during the pre-monsoon season this year, according to a detailed study conducted by the Meteorological Centre in Agartala. The report, prepared by scientists Rana Das and Dr. Partha Roy, analyzed meteorological data collected from observatories in Agartala and Kailashahar in Unakoti district.
The study found that Tripura received only 555.2 mm of rainfall between March and May, which is 17% below normal. Out of the state’s eight districts, Unakoti, Dhalai, and Gomati reported deficient rainfall, while the remaining five districts received normal precipitation. Khowai district received the highest rainfall, with no departure from normal, while Dhalai district recorded the lowest, with a deficit of 32%.
The report also noted that Agartala experienced a 22% rainfall deficit, with month-wise shortfalls of -98% in March, -38% in April, and -2% in May. In contrast, Kailashahar in Unakoti District recorded a slight 2% surplus, despite significant deficits in March and April, leading to a surplus in May.
During the pre-monsoon season, rising temperatures and convective weather activity are typical in India. The report highlighted that while mean maximum temperatures remained near normal in both Agartala and Kailashahar, minimum temperatures were higher than normal in Agartala during March and April. On May 10, Agartala recorded a peak temperature of 38.5°C, while Kailashahar recorded 37.6°C on the same day.
Thunderstorm days were below normal in Agartala (-10%) and above normal in Kailashahar (+9%), with 18 rainy days in Agartala and 29 in Kailashahar. Additionally, there were 30 thunder days in Agartala and 37 in Kailashahar during the pre-monsoon season.
Overall, the study highlights the significant rainfall deficit in Tripura during the pre-monsoon season this year, with certain districts experiencing drier conditions than others. The findings provide valuable insights for meteorologists and policymakers to better understand and prepare for future weather patterns in the region.
