Above-normal rains may flood some areas: IMD chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra

I think from the meteorological point of view, it is good news and gives confidence on the monsoon, which is crucial for agriculture and water resources, says Mohapatra

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) came out with an ‘above-normal’ forecast for the 2024 monsoon season, at 106 per cent of the long period average (LPA). It is in more than a decade that IMD has — in its initial April forecast — predicted ‘above-normal’ rains in the country. In a telephonic interview with Sanjeeb Mukherjee, IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra spells out the details. Edited excerpts:

The Met department has forecast a monsoon at a hefty 106 per cent of the LPA. Is there a higher chance of flooding given that rains could be heavy this year?

Yes, that’s