IMD's first forecast: clear skies and a mild chill expected over Diwali this year

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued its first forecast of how the winter will shape up in the state this year. It does not expect rain or cloud cover during Diwali. Skies will be clear, but cold winds from the west will bring night temperatures down and a light chill will be felt. Diwali will have a pleasantly cool feel, and daytime temperatures will be normal.

The westerly winds will strengthen gradually and the cold will begin to set in. Diwali days usually see cloud and light rain, but this time the sky will be clear. According to the weather department, this is happening for the first time. The cold will now set in gradually across the state.

This year the rain was hit by El Nino. Because of El Nino, the monsoon was very weak across the country and the state. The state received good rain in the fourth week of June and through July, but a long dry spell followed. This dealt a heavy blow to the kharif season and farmers suffered heavy losses. The kharif crop was lost, but farmers had hoped for rain at least for the rabi crop. There was no rain in September and October either, and the rabi season is now also in trouble.

With inadequate rain, water scarcity is also emerging as a problem. Villages have begun to feel the pinch of the shortage.

Because the rain took a break, the shortage is being felt already. Water supply by tanker has had to be started in rural areas this early. Urban areas also face water scarcity. The problem could become more serious in a few days.