The arrival of the southwest monsoon over Kerala is expected to be slightly delayed this year. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), favourable conditions are developing, and the monsoon is now likely to make landfall around June 4.
Monsoon expected to reach Kerala on June 4
The IMD has forecast that the southwest monsoon is likely to arrive in Kerala on or around June 4. The expected onset would place it roughly three days behind the normal date of June 1, which traditionally marks the beginning of the monsoon season in India, as per Hindustan Times.
The annual arrival of the monsoon over Kerala is closely monitored because it serves as a key indicator for rainfall patterns across the country during the coming months.
Also Read | Heat returns to South Bengal as rain stays away; North Bengal braces for heavy showers
Weather conditions becoming favourable
Meteorologists have indicated that atmospheric and oceanic conditions are gradually turning favourable for the advancement of the monsoon. The system has already progressed over parts of the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal and sections of the northeastern region.
According to the weather department, further strengthening of monsoon currents is expected in the coming days, supporting its movement toward the Kerala coast.
Importance of monsoon season
The southwest monsoon plays a crucial role in India's agriculture, water resources and overall economy. A large part of the country's annual rainfall is received during the four-month monsoon season, making its onset and progress important for farmers and policymakers alike.
The monsoon typically advances from Kerala to other parts of the country over several weeks. The speed and spread of the system are influenced by various atmospheric factors that change throughout the season.
No major concern over slight delay
Weather experts generally consider minor variations in the monsoon onset date to be normal. The IMD has noted in previous years that the arrival date alone does not determine the overall performance of the rainy season.
A delay of a few days in the onset over Kerala does not necessarily indicate below-normal rainfall for the rest of the season. What matters more is the distribution and intensity of rainfall over the coming months.
Also Read | Delhi sees coolest start to June since 2023; IMD predicts more rain across North India
With the expected arrival now projected around June 4, attention will turn to how quickly the monsoon advances across the rest of India. The IMD will continue monitoring conditions and issuing updates as the system moves inland.
The onset over Kerala marks the formal beginning of the southwest monsoon season, one of the most significant weather events in the country each year.
