Meghalaya, the “Abode of the Clouds,” logged India's highest rainfall deficit in 2026 — 59% below normal as of 15 September. Ten of its 11 districts have deficient or highly deficient rainfall; West Jaintia Hills is worst at 79%, while East Khasi Hills is 53% short. About 80% of villages rely heavily on springs for drinking water and irrigation, so the dry monsoon threatens farming and water supply. IMD data also show a significant declining trend in Meghalaya's monsoon rainfall from 1989 to 2018.