Tue Aug 05 02:30:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Karnataka Meteorological Department has issued a forecast predicting a significant rainfall deficit of up to 80% in the second half of the monsoon season (August and September), particularly affecting coastal and Malnad regions. While July saw an overall surplus in rainfall, some districts, especially Bangalore Rural, experienced considerable deficits. August is expected to be significantly dry, with a partial recovery predicted for inland areas in September. This forecast is causing concern among farmers as their crops may suffer from water scarcity.

**News Article:**

**Karnataka Braces for Monsoon Deficit: Coastal and Malnad Regions to Face Severe Shortages**

Bangalore: The Karnataka Meteorological Department has issued a worrying forecast for the second half of the monsoon season, predicting a substantial rainfall deficit across the state.

The forecast indicates that August will see a state-wide shortage of 50%, with coastal and Malnad regions potentially experiencing a severe deficit of up to 80%. While the first half of the monsoon season, ending in July, saw an overall surplus of 11% in rainfall, the distribution has been uneven, with several districts already facing deficits.

“The second half of the monsoon, covering August and September, paints a concerning picture,” said a spokesperson for the Meteorological Department. “We expect a significant drop in rainfall, especially in coastal and Malnad areas during August. September may bring some relief to inland regions, but coastal and Malnad areas will likely continue to experience shortages.”

The department highlighted that while coastal regions saw an 18% surplus and North Interior Karnataka saw a 22% surplus by the end of July, South Interior Karnataka faced a 1% deficit. Bangalore Rural district is currently the worst affected, with a 58% rainfall deficit, followed by Ramanagara (49%), Bangalore Urban (36%), Kolar (34%), Tumkur (28%), Shivamogga (22%), and Chikkaballapura (18%).

The forecast has raised concerns among farmers across the state, particularly as sowing has already been completed and crops are now heavily dependent on adequate rainfall. The predicted water scarcity could have a significant impact on agricultural yields and the livelihoods of farmers. State Government is expected to take necessary steps to mitigate the effects.

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