The Southwest Monsoon arrived early over Kerala on May 24, unsettling India’s seasonal weather balance with simultaneous floods and heatwaves across various regions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that this early onset nearly a week ahead of the typical June 1 schedule will usher in prolonged rainfall along the western coast while much of northern India remains trapped in oppressive heat.
Torrential Rain Forecast Along the Western Coast
With the monsoon now active, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected to drench Kerala, Karnataka, coastal Maharashtra, and Goa over the coming week. The IMD has warned of extremely heavy downpours in isolated areas, especially during the weekends. This surge in rainfall is attributed to a depression currently brewing over the East Central Arabian Sea and nearby Konkan coast, which is projected to move eastward and make landfall over south coastal Maharashtra by midday on May 24.
This system, combining with advancing monsoon winds, is likely to intensify moisture-laden clouds across India’s western coast, leading to widespread rains, flooding concerns in low-lying areas, and potential landslides in the hilly Western Ghats.
Odisha and Eastern India Brace for Wet Spell
Eastern India, particularly Odisha, is also in the monsoon’s immediate path. The region is forecast to experience intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds from May 24 to May 30. A trough associated with the Arabian Sea depression is contributing to these conditions, spreading instability across eastern states.
The IMD has issued rainfall alerts in Odisha, warning of localized flooding, waterlogging, and disrupted transportation. As moisture moves inland, states like West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh will see scattered thunderstorms, with occasional heavy downpours during this period.
Northeastern States on High Rainfall Alert
The northeastern region of India is also expected to face persistent rainfall through the end of May. Light to moderate showers, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, are projected to continue until at least May 30. Heavy precipitation is particularly likely in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura.
These continuous showers may trigger flash floods in river basins and create challenges in transport and communication in hilly and forested terrains. The IMD advises caution for communities in landslide-prone zones and remote settlements.
Northern India Suffers Under Relentless Heatwave
While the southern and eastern coasts are inundated, northern and northwestern India remain under the grip of a severe heatwave. Rajasthan is expected to endure extreme temperatures until May 27, with maximum readings touching or exceeding 45°C in several districts.
Similar scorching conditions are being reported across Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and parts of Jammu and Kashmir. The IMD warns that these regions will continue to face high temperatures and dry winds, aggravating health risks such as heatstroke and dehydration, particularly for vulnerable populations.
This stark weather contrast torrential monsoon rains in the south and extreme heat in the north has prompted health and disaster management authorities to stay on alert.
Potential Low-Pressure System in Bay of Bengal
Adding to the complexity, meteorologists are closely watching the north Bay of Bengal, where a potential low-pressure system may develop around May 27. This could further enhance rainfall activity over Odisha and adjoining eastern states. While still under observation, the formation of such a system during early monsoon advancement could impact the trajectory and intensity of rains across central and eastern India.
Localized Weather Events and Hazards
Apart from regional rainfall and heat extremes, the IMD has forecast additional localized events. Rajasthan may experience dust storms over the next few days, potentially disrupting visibility and transport. Hailstorms are also likely in parts of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, adding to the weather volatility in the Himalayan belt.
Farmers in these regions have been advised to protect standing crops and prepare for sudden weather shifts. Transport and emergency services are also on standby for flash alerts.
Weather Extremes Signal Early Seasonal Turbulence
India’s weather map currently presents a paradox: regions battling early floods while others face baking heat. This convergence of multiple systems early monsoon onset, regional depressions, high surface temperatures, and dry continental air has created a highly dynamic and unpredictable environment.
The early arrival of the monsoon has advanced hopes for agricultural activity in parts of the south, but the uneven spread of rainfall and ongoing heatwaves threaten to complicate sowing schedules and rural livelihoods elsewhere.
With the IMD continuing to issue updates and warnings, the country is advised to remain vigilant as May ends with heightened weather activity on both extremes.