Meteorological Department says monsoons may be upon us
What's the story
Authorities from the Indian Meteorological Department have stated that the southwest monsoon is likely to hit southern Kerala by 30-31 May. The IMD said that the strengthening of westerlies and the northward shift of shear zone are indicative of the preconditions that signal the monsoon's onset. They added that favourable conditions have developed across North East India as well.
Information
IMD says Kerala to receive monsoon soon
"It is expected that the conditions for monsoon onset would be fulfilled towards May 30. The appearance of a shear zone is a typical feature around the time of the onset of monsoon. This zone is likely to appear to the southwest of Kerala."
Monsoon detection
How are the monsoons detected?
The IMD has 14 weather stations in South India in Minicoy, Amini, Thiruvananthapuram, Punalur, Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Thalassery, Kannur, Kudulu and Mangalore. If 10 of these stations report 2.5mm or more of rain for 2 consecutive days, after 10 May monsoon is declared. Other conditions include wind pattern and Outgoing Longwave Radiation.
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Likely to reach Goa, Maha before time
Experts stated that after 4 June, the monsoon would progress rapidly and reach Goa and Maharashtra by the second week of June. They added that the presence of an anti-cyclone in the Arabian Sea may hamper the monsoon, but it is weakening.