New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, June 4: The southwest monsoon officially arrived in Keralam on Wednesday, marking the beginning of India’s annual rainy season that plays a vital role in the country’s agriculture, water resources, and overall economy. The arrival came a few days later than the usual onset date, but weather experts have said the delay is not expected to significantly affect seasonal rainfall patterns in the immediate future.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that monsoon conditions have become favorable over Kerala and adjoining regions. Several parts of the state witnessed widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds, signaling the formal commencement of the four-month monsoon season.

Authorities in Kerala have issued advisories in districts likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall. Disaster management teams have been placed on alert as water levels in rivers and reservoirs are expected to rise with continued precipitation. Residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas have been advised to remain cautious and follow official weather updates.

The onset of the monsoon is considered one of the most important annual weather events in India. Nearly 70 percent of the country’s total annual rainfall occurs during the June-to-September period. The agricultural sector, which supports millions of farmers, depends heavily on timely and adequate rainfall for sowing and cultivating major crops such as paddy, cotton, soybean, pulses, and sugarcane.

While southern India welcomes the monsoon, northern regions are preparing for changing weather conditions. The IMD has forecast light to moderate rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) over the coming days. The expected rainfall is likely to bring much-needed relief from soaring temperatures and heatwave-like conditions that have affected residents in recent weeks.

Meteorologists said that the showers in Delhi-NCR are primarily linked to pre-monsoon weather activity. Although the capital generally receives the southwest monsoon toward the end of June, early rain-bearing systems and western disturbances are already influencing weather patterns across northwestern India.

Experts noted that the monsoon will gradually advance across more parts of the country in the coming weeks. Its progress will be closely monitored by farmers, policymakers, and businesses because rainfall levels significantly impact food production, inflation, and rural economic activity.

Weather analysts have also highlighted concerns regarding evolving climatic conditions, including the possibility of El Niño influences affecting rainfall distribution during the season. However, they emphasized that regional variations remain common, and several states may still receive substantial rainfall even if overall national precipitation remains below normal.

With Kerala witnessing the first major spell of monsoon rain and Delhi-NCR preparing for thunderstorms and showers, the country has officially entered its most crucial weather season, one that will shape agricultural output and water availability in the months ahead.

Timeline of Events

May 15, 2026: IMD issues an initial forecast suggesting an early monsoon onset over Kerala.

June 2, 2026: Weather models indicate favorable conditions for monsoon arrival between June 4 and June 6.

June 4, 2026: IMD officially announces the onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala.

June 4, 2026: Heavy rainfall alerts issued for several districts in Kerala.

June 4, 2026: Delhi-NCR placed under forecast for rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds.

Coming Weeks: Southwest monsoon expected to advance steadily across central and northern India.

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