This year's monsoon season kicked off two days earlier than usual in Kerala and the Northeast, and the wet weather is expected to reach Bihar, eastern Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal sooner than anticipated. These areas typically see monsoon rains between June 10-15, but the IMD suggests an earlier arrival this year.
The uncharacteristic arrival of the monsoon has already brought heavy downpours to the Northeast, with the region receiving monsoon coverage three days ahead of schedule. This rapid progress is attributed to favorable conditions, including strong winds from the Bay of Bengal. The good news extends to rain-starved regions like Karnataka, where Bengaluru witnessed record-breaking rainfall on June 2nd, bringing much-needed relief from the scorching heat and drought.
While the early arrival of the monsoon is positive news for farmers who can begin sowing summer crops like rice, cotton, and pulses, it might also bring challenges.
The IMD predicts a western disturbance between June 5th and 7th, potentially causing thunderstorms and rain in North-West India, including Rajasthan, western Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab.
Meanwhile, the monsoon's relentless march continues. Several states, including Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telangana, and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, can expect monsoon rains over the next 4-5 days. Goa and Mumbai are also likely to see the arrival of the monsoon within the next week, with conditions favorable for an onset between June 8th and 10th.
The early arrival in some regions may bring potential disruptions due to western disturbances.