New Delhi, 23: The Southwest Monsoon has already made its way into several parts of India, while some regions are still awaiting its arrival. In a welcome update for the residents of the national capital, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the monsoon is likely to reach Delhi by Tuesday, June 24, much earlier than its usual date.
According to the IMD, the monsoon typically hits Delhi around June 30, but this year, favorable weather conditions have accelerated its progress. This early onset marks the first time since 2013 that the monsoon will arrive ahead of schedule in Delhi. In recent years, the monsoon reached Delhi on June 25 in 2023, June 30 in 2022, and July 13 in 2021.
Yellow Alert Issued for Delhi
The IMD has placed Delhi under a Yellow Alert due to the likelihood of rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. The forecast for the coming days indicates generally cloudy skies with light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms, which could bring much-needed relief from the ongoing heat.
So far this month, Delhi has recorded three rainy days with a total of 2.4 mm rainfall.
Monsoon Progress Across India
The IMD has confirmed that weather conditions are now favorable for the monsoon to advance further into Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi. In addition to Delhi, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh are likely to witness heavy rainfall between June 23 and 27.
On June 25 and 26, the Vidarbha region may also experience heavy showers. Similarly, West Bengal and Sikkim are expected to receive heavy rainfall between June 24 and 27.
Rainfall Warning in Uttar Pradesh and Northern States
From June 23 to 29, regions including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Western Uttar Pradesh, and Eastern Rajasthan are also likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall. The Eastern Uttar Pradesh region, in particular, could see significant downpours on June 23, 24, 28, and 29.
Gujarat Faces Disruption Due to Heavy Rains
Meanwhile, Gujarat has been hit by intense rainfall, leading to flooded streets and disrupted daily life in several cities. In Surat, authorities declared a holiday in schools due to waterlogging. District Education Officer Bhagirath Parmar confirmed that the decision was made to ensure the safety of students and teachers, and arrangements were made for their safe return home.