The India Meteorological Department on Monday forecast a high probability of a normal monsoon this year. The department predicted 97% rainfall of long period average. It, however, added that the figure may vary by 5%. The forecast is for the period of June to September.

The department forecast a low probability for deficit rainfall this monsoon. It also predicted that the rain showers would be evenly distributed across the country.

The department’s statement on the monsoon said it was monitoring extreme sea-surface temperature conditions over the Indian and Pacific Oceans, El Nino or La Nina, which impact the summer and monsoon in the region.