Monsoon Arrives in India Amidst Severe Heat, Signaling Rainy Season's Start

The southwest monsoon has finally reached India, marking the official start of the rainy season after a delay. This year's rainfall is crucial for agriculture, as many farmers depend on it for Kharif crop sowing. The Indian Meteorological Department has revised its rainfall predictions, estimating a total of about 90% of the long-term average. Concerns about El Niño's potential impact on rainfall patterns add to the uncertainty. As climate change continues to affect weather patterns, the upcoming weeks will be critical in determining how beneficial this monsoon will be for the economy and agriculture.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 4, 2026, 21:15 IST

Monsoon's Arrival Marks the Start of Rainy Season

After a period of intense heat across the nation, the monsoon has finally made its entrance. According to the Indian Meteorological Department, the southwest monsoon reached Kerala on Thursday, officially marking the beginning of the four-month rainy season in the country. Typically, the monsoon arrives in Kerala around June 1, but this year it has come a few days later than usual.

Initially, the weather department had predicted that the monsoon would arrive in Kerala around May 26. However, due to changes in weather conditions, its progress was delayed, and it ultimately entered Kerala on June 4.

The Indian Meteorological Department has reported that the monsoon has not only reached Kerala but has also advanced into the Lakshadweep, the southwestern and southeastern Arabian Sea, parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, the Comorin region, and several areas of the Bay of Bengal. Meteorologists believe that in the coming days, the monsoon will gradually move towards other states, leading to an increase in rainfall activities.

It is noteworthy that the monsoon is crucial for the Indian economy. A significant portion of the population relies on agriculture, and the sowing of Kharif crops largely depends on monsoon rains. Adequate rainfall benefits farming, replenishes reservoirs, and strengthens the rural economy. Conversely, insufficient rainfall can adversely affect crop production, drinking water availability, and food prices.

Recently, the weather department revised its seasonal rainfall forecast, estimating that this year, total rainfall in the country could be around 90% of the long-term average. Based on data from 1971 to 2020, the average rainfall during the monsoon in India is considered to be 87 centimeters. If total rainfall falls below 90% of this average, it is categorized as 'below normal' by the meteorological department.

Experts have expressed concerns about the potential development of El Niño conditions in the Pacific Ocean this year. El Niño is a weather phenomenon that often impacts the Indian monsoon and can lead to reduced rainfall. Currently, the weather department indicates that conditions are gradually moving towards El Niño.

The department predicts that the impact of El Niño may remain weak during June but could become moderate or strong by September. If this occurs, it could affect rainfall amounts during the latter stages of the monsoon.

In recent years, climate change and global weather fluctuations have altered monsoon patterns, leading to instances of both excessive rainfall and prolonged dry spells. As such, farmers, policymakers, and the general public are closely monitoring this year's monsoon. The upcoming weeks will determine how the monsoon's pace and rainfall distribution will benefit the country's agriculture and economy.