Hyderabad: Telangana recorded 31% excess rainfall this southwest monsoon (SWM) season, with the India Meterological Department (IMD) projecting its withdrawal between Oct 15 and 20.The state is expected to see continued rainfall thereafter, as the northeast monsoon is set to bring showers, ensuring no prolonged dry spell this month. According to data from the Telangana Development Planning Society (TGDPS), between June 1 and Oct 4, the state received 991.5 mm of rainfall, compared to an average of 756.7 mm. “This was a surplus season across most districts. Even after the southwest monsoon withdraws, the northeast monsoon will follow quickly, so rainfall activity will remain high throughout Oct,” said Balaji Tarini, a Telangana-based independent forecaster. Out of the 33 districts, seven reported ‘large excess’ rainfall, 16 were in the ‘excess’ category and 10 registered ‘normal’ rainfall. None of the districts fell under the ‘large deficient’ or ‘no rain’ categories, reflecting a robust season across the state.Hyderabad recorded 939 mm of rainfall against an average of 697.6 mm, which equates to a 35% surplus. Neighbouring districts also saw higher-than-usual shower — Rangareddy reported 42% excess, while Medchal–Malkajgiri registered 47% excess. Officials noted that Aug and Sept contributed significantly to this surplus, with multiple intense spells boosting seasonal totals.Farmers are expected to benefit from the extended rains, as water levels in reservoirs and groundwater recharge remain healthy. However, urban areas, especially Hyderabad, may be at risk of waterlogging with continuous wet weather. “The good news is that reservoirs are brimming, which secures water availability. But urban flooding remains a challenge if the northeast monsoon coincides with heavy localised rainfall,” said an IMD official.Experts noted that a brief dry spell of two–three days is likely during the transition period, but stressed that this will not lead to prolonged dryness. “People should be prepared for back-to-back wet phases this year, unlike in some seasons where withdrawal leads to a long break,” added YV Rama Rao from TGDPS.
