<p>Dry spells represent an important component of climate variability in monsoon-dependent regions. Their occurrence has significant implications for agriculture, especially in semi-arid zones where irrigation facilities are limited. This study examines the characteristics of dry spells over scarce rainfall zone of Andhra Pradesh in south-India using 30 years of daily rainfall data. Further, in view of higher vulnerability of rainfed agro-ecosystems to climate change, the study analyzed the average dry length period in the last 10 years (2013–2022) compared to previous 20 years (1993–2012) using exploratory data analysis. The results revealed that during the study period (1993–2022), July and December months registered the longer average dry spell length during southwest monsoon and northeast monsoon, respectively. Moreover, during southwest monsoon period (June–September), the average dry spell length decreased in all the months in the last ten years compared to previous 20 years. However, the frequency of shorter dry spells (7–15 days) decreased in the last ten years over previous 20 years, which drastically affect the crop growth and thereby yields. Furthermore, it was observed that September is the moistest month during southwest monsoon with the highest probability for shorter dry spells (around 7 days) and the lowest probability for longer dry spell (&gt; 25 days). These findings provide actionable information for rainfed crop planning, contingency measures, and drought preparedness, supporting policy decisions to cropping calenders and climate-resilient agricultural strategies in semi-arid regions.</p>