Mangaluru, June 22: Nearly three weeks into the southwest monsoon season, Dakshina Kannada is grappling with an unusually weak spell of rain, raising concerns over water availability and agriculture. Despite overcast skies and forecasts predicting moderate rainfall through the day, the district remains far behind its seasonal rainfall targets.

According to official figures, Dakshina Kannada has recorded a rainfall deficit of 54 per cent between June 1 and June 19. The district received only 229.1 mm of rainfall during the period against a normal of 502 mm. During the corresponding period last year, rainfall stood at nearly 999 mm.

The southwest monsoon entered Karnataka through the coastal belt in early June after a delayed onset over Kerala. While the first few days brought widespread showers, rainfall activity weakened soon after, leaving large parts of the coast under dry and humid conditions more typical of summer.

Deficit Across All Taluks

The rainfall shortage has been reported across every taluk in the district. Areas that traditionally receive heavy rainfall, including Belthangady, Bantwal, Kadaba and Moodbidri, have recorded sharp declines compared to last year.

Weather officials say cloud cover has increased in recent days and moderate rainfall is expected. However, sustained showers will be needed to significantly reduce the deficit.

Rivers Showing Signs of Stress

The weak monsoon is already affecting river systems. Water levels in the Netravathi and Payaswini rivers rose briefly after the initial rains, prompting authorities to open barrage gates. However, subsequent dry weather has led to a noticeable decline in flow.

At Uppinangady, sections of the Netravathi that were flowing strongly earlier this month now show exposed stretches and lower water levels. Similar concerns have emerged along the Payaswini in Sullia, where authorities recently undertook desilting work and diverted water towards intake points to safeguard drinking water supplies.

Several seasonal streams and rivulets that revived after the onset of the monsoon have once again begun to shrink.

Farmers Await Revival of Monsoon

The rainfall shortage has created uncertainty among paddy growers preparing for transplantation. Farmers say nursery activities are under way, but continued dry weather could delay cultivation operations scheduled for July.

Agriculture Department Joint Director Honnappa Gowda said adequate rainfall over the coming days will be crucial. If the monsoon does not strengthen before transplantation begins, paddy cultivation could be affected and alternative measures may need to be considered.

While arecanut growers expect a lower incidence of fungal diseases such as Koleroga due to reduced rainfall, the overall mood remains one of caution. With a 54 per cent rainfall deficit already recorded, farmers and water managers alike are hoping for a sustained revival of the monsoon before the end of June.