According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the monsoon arrived in Kerala on May 24th, significantly earlier than its usual onset on June 1st. This is the earliest monsoon arrival since 2009.
Weather: The monsoon's early arrival has surprised everyone. The IMD reported that the monsoon reached Kerala on May 24th, preceding its typical June 1st arrival. This is the earliest onset since 2009.
The rapid advance of the monsoon has begun impacting weather patterns and agriculture across the country. While South India experiences heavy rainfall, pre-monsoon showers in North India have provided relief from the intense heat.
Earliest Monsoon Arrival Since 2009
Scientist Neetha K. Gopal from the Meteorological Department explains that while the initial prediction was for a May 27th arrival in Kerala, the monsoon arrived three days earlier. This early arrival is considered unusual but beneficial, particularly for farmers and rural communities whose livelihoods depend on rainfall.
Having entered through Kerala, the monsoon has now reached Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and northeastern states like Mizoram and Tripura. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands experienced the monsoon's onset as early as May 13th. Active monsoon conditions in both the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal are driving its rapid northward progression.
Monsoon Arrival in Your State?
- Uttar Pradesh: The monsoon is expected to reach eastern Uttar Pradesh by June 20th and western parts between June 25th and 30th.
- Delhi-NCR: The monsoon is anticipated to reach the capital between June 27th and 29th. However, pre-monsoon rains have already offered some relief to Delhi residents.
- Haryana and Punjab: The monsoon may arrive between June 29th and July 2nd.
- Rajasthan: The monsoon is expected to spread across the state between June 25th and July 5th.
- Bihar and Jharkhand: The monsoon is likely to arrive between June 16th and 18th.
- Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh: The monsoon may become active in these states between June 15th and 20th, spreading completely by June 25th.
- Uttarakhand: The monsoon is expected to begin between June 25th and 30th.
- Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir: The monsoon is likely to become active after June 25th.
Heavy Rainfall Impacts Kerala and Tamil Nadu
Kerala is experiencing heavy rainfall following the monsoon's arrival. Red alerts have been issued for Kasaragod and Kannur districts, while an orange alert is in effect for 11 districts, including Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram, and Ernakulam. A red alert has also been issued for Nilgiri district in Tamil Nadu. Fishing activities have been banned, and citizens are advised to remain vigilant.
Reasons for Early Monsoon Arrival?
- Several factors contributed to the early monsoon arrival:
- A low-pressure area over the Arabian Sea accelerated the monsoon's progress.
- A trough extending up to Vidarbha supported rainfall activity.
- Neutral ENSO (El Niño/La Niña) conditions maintained favorable weather patterns.
- Reduced Himalayan snowfall and increased heat in northern India also contributed to the monsoon's early onset.
Relief for Farmers
The early monsoon onset will allow timely sowing of Kharif crops, potentially leading to improved yields. Fisheries, dairy, and other businesses dependent on water resources will also benefit. The IMD's monsoon mission and advanced computing systems played a crucial role in this accurate prediction, marking a significant achievement in Indian meteorology.
