Bhubaneswar, June 3 -- The possibility of El Nino developing during the monsoon this year could have a noticeable impact on rainfall patterns across the country, India Meteorological Department (IMD) sources said on Wednesday. The weather agency projected that the country may receive below-normal rainfall during the southwest monsoon period from June to September if El Nino conditions strengthen as anticipated.

Speaking during his visit to Odisha, IMD Director General Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated that the effects of El Nino are expected to be felt from June onwards. As a result, overall monsoon rainfall across the country could decline by around 10% compared to normal levels.

The phenomenon, which is associated with warming of sea su...