Kerala Braces for Earliest Monsoon in 16 Years – IMD Confirms Onset Within 24 Hours

INVC NEWS 
Thiruvananthapuram – : Kerala is poised to welcome the earliest monsoon arrival in 16 years, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirming that all favorable atmospheric conditions have aligned for the onset of monsoon in the next 24 hours. Typically expected by June 1, this year’s early entry marks a significant shift, potentially landing on May 25, surpassing the last early arrivals seen in 2009 and 2001.

Heavy Rainfall Pounds Kerala as Monsoon Advances

Several parts of Kerala have already experienced torrential rains in the last two days, signaling the advancing monsoon system combined with a low-pressure area. The early monsoon surge has also brought strong winds between 40-50 kmph, amplifying rainfall intensity. The IMD forecasts continued heavy to very heavy rainfall across Kerala and coastal Karnataka through May 29, marking a wet and turbulent start to the season.

Depression in Arabian Sea Intensifies Monsoon Activity

A depression over the east-central Arabian Sea, situated around 40 km northwest of Ratnagiri, is expected to cross the Konkan coast between Ratnagiri and Dapoli. This system is accelerating monsoon conditions in Maharashtra and Goa, enhancing rainfall potential in these coastal belts.

South India Weather Update: Thunderstorms, Winds, and Showers

• Karnataka: Coastal and south interior regions are under alert for heavy rainfall, especially around Mangaluru and Udupi.
• Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh & Telangana: These states are set to receive scattered rain showers and thunderstorms over the next five days.

Regional Forecasts and Alerts Across India

Maharashtra

A red alert has been issued for coastal Maharashtra, particularly Mumbai, which is likely to face thunderstorms and moderate rains. The IMD anticipates wind speeds of 40–50 kmph, potentially disrupting normal life in low-lying urban zones.

Goa

Goa is bracing for intense rainfall. With a red alert in effect, the IMD warns of very heavy downpours till Sunday, following consistent showers over the last 24 hours.

Delhi-NCR

Residents of Delhi-NCR should prepare for gusty winds reaching up to 70 kmph, with an orange alert in place for potential disruptions, especially during peak commuting hours.

Jharkhand

The state is forecast to receive thunderstorms and gusty winds in the coming days. Temperatures are likely to remain below seasonal averages, between 31°C and 37°C, offering a brief respite from the usual late-May heat.

Monsoon Timeline and Historical Reference

The IMD projects that this year’s monsoon, expected to begin on May 25 in Kerala, will gradually cover the entire nation by July 8. The monsoon typically starts retreating by September 17 and fully withdraws by October 15. For reference:

• Earliest Monsoon Onset: May 11 (1918)
• Most Delayed Onset: June 18 (1972)
• Most Delayed in Recent 25 Years: June 9 (2016)

Above-Normal Rainfall Forecast for 2025

In April, the IMD forecasted above-normal monsoon rainfall for the year 2025, ruling out El Nino conditions, which are typically associated with below-average rains in India. This prediction raises hopes for strong agricultural output and replenishment of water resources across the country.