Why a Strong El Niño Doesn't Guarantee a Weak Monsoon
Seven Indian monsoons since 1950 ran alongside a moderate or strong El Niño. In five of them, rainfall was at least 10% below the long-term average, including 2026. The article explains why a strong El Niño does not guarantee a poor season, and notes that 2023 was an exception.
Context
Context: El Niño is a warming of parts of the Pacific Ocean that often weakens the Indian monsoon, which farmers depend on for crops and water. The IMD calls rainfall at least 10% below average 'deficient'.