Factors influencing early monsoon onset in India
This year's southwest monsoon showed up in Kerala on May 24—eight days ahead of schedule—thanks to an active weather pattern called the Madden-Julian Oscillation.
After that, rains spread quickly across southern, eastern, and northeastern India, while central India saw a slight delay.
It's a rare early start that got people talking.
Above normal rainfall in June
June's rainfall was 9% above normal—the first time in years it wasn't below average. Five low-pressure systems and steady weather patterns kept the rain coming.
This is huge for farmers counting on kharif crops since the monsoon affects food production, prices, and even economic growth.
The government is keeping a close eye as these rains could shape everything from grocery bills to job opportunities this year.