Andhra Pradesh declares drought in 21 districts as rainfall deficit stands at 53%

What happened: Andhra Pradesh declared a drought in 21 of its 28 districts for the Kharif season on October 1, after a 53% rainfall deficit from June to August, attributed to El Niño. Key numbers: Rainfall averaged 197.6 mm against a normal of 424.3 mm from June 1 to August 31. The monsoon season ended September 30 with a 12.6% deficit, the driest in 11 years. Why it matters: The declaration came earlier than the usual end of October timing. Maharashtra had already declared drought conditions in 74% of its subdistricts in September.

Andhra Pradesh declares drought in 21 districts amid 53% rainfall deficit.

Andhra Pradesh declares drought in 21 districts amid 53% rainfall deficit. — impact context not separately stored; see What changed.