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Monsoons Cause Havoc in India as Climate Change Alters Rainfall Patterns

Anjana Pasricha

   NEW DELHI - Searching through the rubble of a tea plantation that
   collapsed after heavy rains lashed India's southern Kerala state last
   week, rescuers counted 55 casualties. The resulting landslide buried
   homes of several workers in the hillside's debris -- several children
   were among the victims.

   It was the latest monsoon-related disaster that has taken at least 150
   lives in India, where environmentalists say climate change has altered
   the pattern of the monsoon season -- it now brings short, intense
   bursts of rain instead of the steady showers that historically
   rejuvenated soil from June to September.

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