Monsoon Makes Early Entrance

The southwest monsoon has commenced in various regions of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the Andaman Islands, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This early onset in Kerala, predicted for May 26, may lead to below-normal rainfall due to potential El Nino conditions.

The southwest monsoon has reached parts of the southeast Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) announcement on Saturday. The department confirmed favorable conditions for further advancement into more regions in the coming days.

This development sees the southwest monsoon setting in earlier than usual in Kerala, anticipated on May 26, although traditionally, the onset occurs on June 1. This early arrival could influence the southwest monsoon season, which spans June to September.

However, the IMD also warned of potentially below-normal rainfall this year due to emerging El Nino conditions that historically result in reduced precipitation across India during the monsoon period.