Get Ready for Monsoon: Northwest India Set for Widespread Rainfall by June 25, Says IMD

New Delhi: The southwest monsoon is picking up speed this week. By June 25, it will cover most of northwest India, including Delhi, ahead of schedule, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The monsoon first hit Kerala on May 24, marking the earliest arrival over mainland India since 2009.

Strong low-pressure systems over the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal have helped the monsoon move quickly. By May 29, it reached central Maharashtra and all of the northeast. However, there was a stall between May 28-29 and again from June 10-11, leading to warmer temperatures and heatwave conditions in northwest and central India since June 8.

Looking ahead, the IMD predicts the monsoon will cover central and eastern India and some northwest areas by June 18. Most parts of northwest India are expected to be covered between June 19 and June 25. The IMD official noted that the monsoon is likely to reach Delhi around June 22-23, which is earlier than the average date of June 27.

Interestingly, the timing of the monsoon’s arrival doesn’t guarantee how much rain will follow. Meteorologists explain that the monsoon’s behavior is influenced by various global, regional, and local factors, making it unpredictable. In May, the IMD anticipated that India would receive about 106% of the long-term average rainfall of 87 cm for the monsoon season from June to September.

Rainfall between 96% and 104% of this average is deemed “normal.” However, above-normal rainfall is expected in most areas, except for regions like Ladakh, parts of Himachal Pradesh, the northeast, and some areas in Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha. Some locations in Punjab, Haryana, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu may see below-normal rainfall this season.

The monsoon is vital for India’s agriculture, supporting around 42% of the population and contributing 18.2% to the country’s GDP. It also replenishes reservoirs crucial for drinking water and power supply. As we approach peak monsoon season, the impact on agriculture and water resources becomes even more significant, showcasing its importance to the nation’s economy.

According to a recent report by the World Bank, climate change may alter monsoon patterns over the next few decades, which could affect crop yields and water availability across India. Farmers, reliant on timely rains, are understandably anxious about these shifts. Social media buzzes with discussions on how this year’s rainfall might compare to previous years, highlighting the growing concern over climate-related changes.

The unpredictable nature of the monsoon serves as a reminder of our planet’s delicate balance. As we enjoy the rains, it’s essential to consider how these seasonal changes affect not just our farms but the economy and everyday life in India.

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