Delhi Monsoon is expected to arrive earlier than usual, potentially marking its earliest entry since 2013. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), if the Delhi Monsoon arrives by June 24, it will be the earliest onset since June 16, 2013. In comparison, last year the Delhi Monsoon arrived on June 28, while in 2022 it came on June 30, and in 2021 it was delayed until July 13.
Today, on June 23, Delhi is already under a rain and thunderstorm alert. Light to moderate rainfall is likely in the evening with lightning and winds ranging between 30-40 kmph. The same is expected at night. This rapid weather shift signals the strong possibility of an early Delhi Monsoon.
Monsoon Covers North India’s Hills, Nearing Delhi
The Delhi Monsoon is now approaching as the monsoon has already covered significant portions of north India. According to IMD’s latest update, the monsoon has covered the entire Ladakh region, most parts of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, and some parts of Punjab. By June 24, monsoon conditions will be favorable for further advancement over the remaining parts of Jammu-Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, western Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Chandigarh, Punjab, and of course, Delhi.
This widespread monsoonal progress underscores the likelihood of Delhi Monsoon reaching earlier than its usual date.
Rain and Storm Alerts for Delhi and Other States
As per the IMD alert, Delhi is not the only region under watch. States including Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and coastal regions like Konkan and Goa are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall until June 26. Central India, particularly Madhya Pradesh, may witness extremely heavy rainfall on June 23 and 24.
Northeast India will also face intense rainfall in the next two days, with light showers expected over the following four days. These signs reflect the widespread influence of the Delhi Monsoon.
Why Is the Monsoon Early This Year?
The Delhi Monsoon has followed an unusually accelerated path. It hit Kerala on May 24, making it the earliest landfall since 2009 when the monsoon arrived on May 23. This early onset is attributed to strong weather systems over both the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. By May 29, the monsoon had already covered Mumbai, much of Maharashtra, and all of Northeast India.
However, between May 29 and June 16, the monsoon saw an 18-day pause. Dry weather in early June led to rising temperatures and heatwaves across central and northwestern India. The Delhi Monsoon regained momentum around June 16-18, due to new low-pressure zones forming over West Bengal and Gujarat.
What Is the Normal Monsoon Timeline?
Generally, the Delhi Monsoon arrives by June 30. The monsoon usually hits Kerala by June 1, Mumbai by June 11, and covers the entire country by July 8. It begins retreating from northwestern India around September 17 and completely withdraws by October 15.
Experts caution that the start date of the Delhi Monsoon does not directly determine how much rain the city will receive. Monsoon behavior is influenced by global, regional, and local factors, making it highly variable year to year.
Rainfall Predictions Across India
In May, IMD had forecasted that India would receive 106% of its long-period average rainfall (which is 87 cm) during the June to September monsoon season. Rainfall between 96-104% is considered normal. Most parts of India — except regions in Ladakh, nearby areas of Himachal Pradesh, parts of Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha — are expected to receive above-normal rainfall.
However, isolated pockets in Punjab, Haryana, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu might receive below-normal rain. These variations are typical due to the dynamic nature of the monsoon system.
Important Monsoon Safety Tips
As Delhi Monsoon nears, residents are advised to stay alert during heavy rains and thunderstorms. Avoid water-logged areas, ensure drainage is clear, and avoid venturing out during windstorms. Power outages and local flooding may occur in some parts of Delhi-NCR.
Summary: Delhi Braces for an Early Monsoon
With favorable atmospheric conditions and consistent rainfall in adjoining states, the Delhi Monsoon is poised for an early and potentially intense entry. If it arrives on June 24, it will be the earliest since 2013. Rain and storm alerts have already been issued for Delhi and surrounding states.
The Delhi Monsoon is not just a seasonal transition—it’s a critical weather phase that affects agriculture, water supply, and daily life. Stay prepared and stay informed.
Source | aajtak
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