Finally, rain gods bless Wayanad; 1196 mm so far

KALPETTA: The rain gods have blessed Wayanad district this time  compared to last year. It has received 1196 millimeter rainfall so far from June 1  to August 30. Last year,  the district had received a total rainfall of 1229.8 mm  against the normal average of 2388.3 mm. As per the data of Regional Agriculture Research Station, Ambalavayal here, the district received the highest rainfall of 332.8 mm in August, 200.6 mm  in June and 238 mm in July.   The rainfall last year was 334 mm in June,   285 mm in July  and 181 mm in August.

This year the district witnessed a 50 per cent deficit in rain  whereas last year it was 59 percent. The rainfall rate may cross the 2000- mm mark if there is good rain during the northeast monsoon starting in September. RARS director Dr P. Rajendran told DC that though rainfall rate hinted at 50 percent deficit, so far it was good for the agrarian sector as the threat of drought had  passed.   Now the water sources are full and the recharging of groundwater has  also started, he said and added that if the district receives good rains in the northeast monsoon it would be a relief for the farmers.