Monsoon Advances in Northeast India: Rainfall Expected Soon

The southwest monsoon has made significant progress in Northeast India, covering nearly half of the region and expected to advance further in the coming days. The India Meteorological Department forecasts widespread rainfall across several states, including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Meghalaya, from June 7 to June 13. Despite a slower onset this year compared to last, officials remain optimistic about adequate rainfall, which is crucial for the region's agriculture-dependent economy. The anticipated weather patterns are also influenced by El Nino conditions, but the northeastern region's unique geography may mitigate adverse effects. This article explores the implications of the monsoon's arrival for local agriculture and water resources.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 8, 2026, 08:43 IST

Monsoon Update for Northeast India

Guwahati, June 8: The southwest monsoon has now reached nearly half of the Northeast region and is anticipated to progress into the remaining areas within the next three to four days.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the southwest monsoon has advanced into additional regions of west-central and the entire northeastern Bay of Bengal, as well as parts of northwest Bay of Bengal, and has covered all of Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram, along with portions of Tripura, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh.

Favorable conditions are expected to facilitate the further movement of the southwest monsoon into the remaining northeastern states and parts of sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim over the next few days.

The forecast indicates that widespread rainfall is likely across Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura from June 7 to June 13. Thunderstorms and lightning are also anticipated, along with isolated heavy rainfall.

Typically, the monsoon covers this region by June 5, but this year, its arrival has been slower.

Officials from the meteorological center in Guwahati noted that last year, the southwest monsoon had reached most parts of the northeastern region by May 26, making this year's onset relatively late.

IMD officials mentioned that while strong El Nino conditions are predicted in some areas of India this year, they are not expected to significantly affect the mountainous northeastern region due to its dense forest cover, diverse topography, and favorable climate.

They also stated that rainfall during the southwest monsoon season is projected to be normal to above normal across the northeastern states.

A weather expert highlighted that one of the strongest El Nino events on record is anticipated to develop in the latter half of 2026, which could lead to hot and dry conditions in many parts of Asia while causing excessive rainfall in certain areas of the Americas, with these effects likely exacerbated by ongoing global climate change.

In India, the meteorological department has revised its forecast for the four-month southwest monsoon season (June to September), which is responsible for nearly 70% of the country's annual rainfall.

Despite concerns regarding El Nino, the northeastern region is expected to receive sufficient rainfall during the monsoon months.

The arrival of the monsoon is vital for the agrarian economy of the northeastern states, where a significant portion of the population relies on rain-fed agriculture. Adequate rainfall during this season is crucial for supporting agricultural activities, replenishing water resources, and enhancing overall environmental conditions in the region.