India's southwest monsoon likely to arrive in 2-3 days: IMD
What's the story
Kerala is still waiting for the southwest monsoon to arrive, even though the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted its arrival on May 26. The southwest monsoon, which brings nearly 70% of India's annual rainfall, usually first hits Kerala before moving northward across the country over four months. This year, however, real-time weather assessments indicate a delay in its onset by one to three days.
Date revision
IMD yellow alert for heavy rainfall
The IMD has now revised its prediction, saying that the southwest monsoon is likely to reach Kerala between May 28 and June 3. The weather department has issued a yellow alert across the state till May 28 in preparation for heavy rainfall. Despite not being officially declared, several parts of Kerala are already witnessing heavy rain and thunderstorms.
Heatwave impact
Extreme heatwave conditions across India
Meanwhile, the delay in the monsoon has led to a severe heatwave across India. Delhi recorded its hottest May night in nearly 14 years with a minimum temperature of 32.4°C on Monday, which is 5.7°C above normal for this time of year. This extreme weather has also affected international visitors, such as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who admitted that he found Delhi's summer heat harsher than Miami's humid conditions.
Weather forecast
El Niño conditions may affect rainfall
The IMD has also warned that the total rainfall during this year's monsoon season could be below normal due to developing El Niño conditions over the Pacific Ocean. These conditions often lead to changes in weather patterns and can reduce rainfall in India. Despite these challenges, weather experts say there is still enough time before the normal onset date for Kerala's southwest monsoon on June 1.