Kerala to Experience Early Monsoon Arrival on May 26 Amid Concerns of Below-Normal Rainfall
Monsoon to arrive in Kerala on May 26, six days early; IMD forecasts below-normal rainfall for 2026
The Economic Times
Image: The Economic Times
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts that the monsoon will arrive in Kerala on May 26, six days earlier than usual. However, concerns are raised about below-normal rainfall for 2026 due to the El Nino phenomenon, which could impact agricultural productivity and food security in India.
- 01The southwest monsoon typically arrives in Kerala on June 1, with a standard deviation of seven days.
- 02The IMD predicts below-normal rainfall at 92% of the long-period average for 2026.
- 03The early onset of the monsoon triggers sowing operations for kharif crops, essential for India's agriculture.
- 04In the past six years, the monsoon has arrived early four times and late twice compared to the normal date.
- 05Heat wave conditions are expected to persist in northwest and central India despite the monsoon's arrival.
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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced that the southwest monsoon is expected to arrive in Kerala on May 26, six days ahead of the usual onset date of June 1. This early arrival is significant for farmers as it marks the beginning of sowing for crucial kharif crops such as rice, pulses, and sugarcane. However, the IMD has raised concerns about below-normal rainfall for 2026, forecasting only 92% of the long-period average due to the potential impact of the El Nino weather phenomenon. The monsoon typically covers the entire country by July 15, and while its early arrival in Kerala is beneficial, it does not guarantee a uniform progression across India. Furthermore, the IMD warns of ongoing heat wave conditions in northwest and central India, which could affect agricultural output and food security. Agricultural departments are preparing by making seeds and fertilizers available to farmers ahead of the rainy season.
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The early arrival of the monsoon is crucial for farmers in Kerala, enabling timely sowing of crops, which is essential for food security and agricultural productivity in India.
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