Monsoon Gains Momentum; Activity Increases from Maharashtra to Central India; Heavy Rain Alert for Several States
Mumbai, June 22: After a hiatus of nearly two weeks, the Southwest Monsoon has regained momentum. Weather conditions have now become favorable for its advance towards Central India. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the monsoon has reached parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh, as well as the remaining areas of Karnataka. It is likely to become active across several parts of central and western India, including Mumbai, in the coming days.
The monsoon is crucial for India's economy and agriculture. Rainfall between June and September accounts for approximately 70 percent of the country's total annual precipitation. With nearly half of the agricultural land lacking irrigation facilities, monsoon rains are considered a lifeline for farmers.
According to the weather department, the monsoon's progress in Maharashtra had slowed for about two weeks due to the influence of Western Disturbances, but conditions are now changing. The monsoon is expected to advance further into central parts of Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Odisha this week. Rainfall activity is projected to intensify along the west coast and in Karnataka and Telangana next week.
The IMD has issued warnings for heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes across several states. Heavy rainfall is predicted for parts of Northeast India, the west coast, and South India. Intense rain is likely in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Sikkim, Karnataka, Kerala, Konkan-Goa, and Telangana.
Thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds are forecast for Delhi-NCR, Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. Delhi is likely to experience cloudy skies and light rain between June 22 and 25, which may bring relief from the heat and humidity. The monsoon is expected to reach Delhi between June 25 and 30.
However, the country has recorded about 42 percent less rainfall than normal during the first 21 days of June. The Meteorological Department has warned that areas experiencing heavy rainfall could face situations such as waterlogging, traffic disruptions, power supply interruptions, and damage caused by strong winds.
