The monsoon arrived in Kerala eight days ahead of schedule, surprising meteorologists. On May 24th, the southwest monsoon reached Kerala, whereas the normal onset date is June 1st. This is the earliest arrival since 2009.
Monsoon Arrived In Kerala: The monsoon arrived in Kerala approximately a week earlier than expected, marking the earliest arrival in 16 years. The combination of a low-pressure area and an advancing monsoon system is considered the primary reason for this early onset. All favorable conditions for the monsoon were present in the state, and heavy rainfall has been occurring in many parts of Kerala for the past two days. Previously, the monsoon arrived in Kerala on May 23rd in 2009 and 2001.
Earliest Arrival in 16 Years
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this is the earliest monsoon arrival in the last 16 years. The 2024 meteorological data indicates that factors such as a low-pressure area over the Arabian Sea and high atmospheric moisture contributed to the early arrival. Heavy rainfall has been observed in Kerala and surrounding areas for the past two days, confirming a b monsoon onset this year.
A low-pressure area became active in the east-central Arabian Sea, northwest of Ratnagiri, on the morning of May 24th, accelerating the monsoon's progress. This resulted in heavy to very heavy rainfall in several areas of Kerala. The IMD has issued a warning for heavy rainfall and winds gusting at 40-50 km/h in coastal Karnataka, Kerala, and the south Konkan-Goa region until May 29th.
Historically, the earliest monsoon arrival in Kerala was on May 11th, 1918. Conversely, the latest arrival was on June 18th, 1972. In the last 25 years, the latest monsoon arrival was on June 9th, 2016. This data clearly shows that this year's early monsoon is a significant meteorological event.
Nationwide Impact
- Maharashtra: The IMD has issued a red alert for coastal areas. Light to moderate rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds are expected in Mumbai and surrounding areas.
- Goa: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is predicted until Sunday. Torrential rain has been recorded in many places over the past 24 hours.
- Delhi-NCR: An orange alert has been issued with a warning of gusty winds up to 70 km/h.
- Jharkhand: Thunderstorms and squalls are likely in the coming days. The maximum temperature is forecast to remain below normal, between 31-37 degrees Celsius.
In April, the IMD indicated that the El Niño effect would be weak this year, and the monsoon could be better than normal. El Niño typically reduces rainfall, but this year, favorable La Niña conditions appear to be developing, increasing the likelihood of better monsoon rainfall across the country.
