Karnataka Endures Heaviest Pre-Monsoon Rainfall in 125 Years, Resulting in Over 70 Fatalities + Monsoon forecast for India (June, July 2025)
Marek Kučera 
In an unprecedented climatic event, Karnataka has experienced its highest pre-monsoon rainfall in 125 years, leading to widespread devastation across the state. Between March 1 and May 31, 2025, the state recorded 286 mm of rainfall, which is 149% above the average for this period. May alone saw 219 mm of rain, marking a 197% increase over the typical 74 mm expected during this month.
Human and Agricultural Impact
The excessive rainfall has resulted in the deaths of 71 individuals since April. The causes of these fatalities include lightning strikes (48 deaths), falling trees (9), house collapses (5), drowning incidents (4), landslides (4), and electrocution (1).
Agricultural sectors have suffered significantly, with over 15,000 hectares of crops destroyed. The damage has primarily affected paddy, coffee, and arecanut plantations.
Infrastructure and Relief Measures
The torrential rains have led to the destruction of 2,068 houses and the death of 702 animals. In response, the state government has initiated compensation processes for affected families and farmers. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has assured that immediate relief measures are underway, with over ₹1,000 crore available under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for emergency relief.
To mitigate further risks, authorities have identified 170 taluks as vulnerable to floods and landslides. A total of 2,296 shelters have been established, and 201 flood-prone locations within Bengaluru have been mapped for close monitoring.
Broader Impact Across India
The early and intense monsoon has not only affected Karnataka but has also wreaked havoc in other parts of India. States like Maharashtra, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, and Kerala have reported fatalities and severe flooding. In Assam, for instance, the death toll has climbed to eight amid torrential rains, flooding, and landslides.
The India Meteorological Department has issued red alerts for several districts, predicting continued intense rainfall. Disaster response units, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), are on high alert, with relief shelters being prepared across the affected regions.
June 2025 Monsoon Forecast
- Rainfall Expectations: The IMD predicts that June will experience above-normal rainfall, estimated at over 108% of the Long Period Average (LPA). This is a positive indicator for agriculture and water resources.
- Regional Variations:
- Central and South Peninsular India: These regions are expected to receive above-normal rainfall, benefiting rainfed agricultural areas.
- Northwest and Northeast India: Below-normal rainfall is anticipated in these areas, which may impact local agriculture and water availability.
- Temperature Trends: Most parts of the country are likely to experience normal to below-normal maximum temperatures, except for many areas in Northwest and Northeast India, where above-normal temperatures are expected.
Conclusion
The unprecedented pre-monsoon rainfall in Karnataka and other parts of India underscores the increasing unpredictability of weather patterns, possibly linked to broader climatic changes. As the monsoon season progresses, authorities remain vigilant, emphasizing the need for preparedness and robust disaster management strategies to mitigate the impact of such extreme weather events.
Monsoon forecast for India. Source: https://x.com/lovelyweather_/status/1929414734689771905/photo/2
Marek Sadowski 
