LUCKNOW, June 18 -- Uttar Pradesh has recorded a 32% rainfall deficit so far in June, with eastern districts facing a severe shortfall and the southwest monsoon yet to reach the region by its normal arrival date of June 18, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data.

Uttar Pradesh received 24.2 mm of rainfall against a normal of 35.4 mm between June 1 and June 18, recording a deficit of 32%. The shortfall was more pronounced in East UP, which received only 18.6 mm of rainfall against a normal of 39.1 mm, a deficit of 52%. In contrast, West UP recorded 32.4 mm of rainfall against 30.2 mm, registering a surplus of 7%.

The rainfall deficit persisted during the week from June 12 to June 18. The state received 12.4 mm of rainfal...