Below-average monsoon threatens crops in India

Dawn reported that the monsoon is likely to deliver less-than-normal precipitation to western, central and southern India during the coming two weeks. Two senior weather officials said crops such as cotton, soybean, corn and pulses, sown only recently, could suffer as a result. The monsoon normally supplies around 70 per cent of India's yearly rain, replenishing water supplies in an economy worth nearly $4 trillion.

An Indian Meteorological Department official, who asked not to be named, said rain is expected to ease across most of India over the next fortnight, apart from some eastern and northern states. He warned that the shortfall could be considerable in western and southern states in that period. So far this season, which began on June 1, rainfall is 12 per cent below average, and parts of southern Andhra Pradesh have seen deficits of up to 34 per cent.

Swiss Re estimated worldwide natural catastrophe losses at $100 billion for the first half of 2026, down from $152 billion a year earlier and 10 per cent below the 10-year average. The group said losses from disasters often rise in the second half, mainly because of North Atlantic hurricanes. Its catastrophe perils director cautioned that a single major hurricane, earthquake or wildfire could quickly alter the outlook.