Despite some rain last week, Karnataka is grappling with a 34% deficiency in Northeast monsoon rainfall following a lackluster Southwest monsoon season, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Bengaluru. Apart from Hassan, Mysuru, and Kodagu districts receiving above-normal rainfall, most areas are experiencing rain deficits. Coastal Karnataka exhibits an -11 deficiency, North Interior Karnataka records -71 with 34.9 mm rainfall, and South Interior Karnataka has a departure of -23 mm. IMD forecasts normal rainfall in the coming weeks but attributes current shortages to Cyclone Midhili absorbing moisture. Additionally, the onset of winter brings cooler temperatures, with this year’s expected to be milder due to El Nino, according to IMD scientists.