With just days left before the northeast monsoon ends, Kerala has received 20% less rain than usual this season. As of December 24, the state recorded 388.3 mm of rain compared to the average of 487.2 mm. Experts say no major rains are expected in the last week as the Bay of Bengal remains quiet. Earlier, the southwest monsoon also brought 13% less rain from June to September. This twin shortfall could cause water shortages during the hot summer of 2026 unless heavy summer rains come. Reservoir water levels are already impacted. On December 23, Idukki reservoir had 75.23% active storage, while Banasurasagar dam in Wayanad held 70.52%. The India Meteorological Department predicts below-normal rainfall and temperatures will continue in Kerala for the rest of December. Weak La Niña conditions are present in the Pacific Ocean and may last until early next year. La Niña usually causes cooler winters and stronger monsoons in India, but this year the northeast monsoon is weak. Night and early morning temperatures are lower than usual, while daytime can be warm. On December 23, Kottayam recorded a high of 35.5°C, and Letchmi Estate, Munnar recorded a low of -1°C for the second day in a row.