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Tracking the Monsoon 2026: Insights from IMD’s Satellite Imagery
Monsoon 2026: How to track clouds through IMD’s INSAT satellite imagery?
Image: The Hindu
The onset of the southwest monsoon in India is anticipated today, June 4, 2026, with Kerala as the focal point. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) provides tools to track cloud movements and monitor monsoon developments through its satellite imagery.
- 01The southwest monsoon typically begins in Kerala around late May and is crucial for India's agricultural cycle.
- 02The IMD utilizes the INSAT-3DS satellite to provide real-time cloud imagery for monitoring monsoon patterns.
- 03Cloud Top Brightness Temperature (CTBT) can be accessed via IMD services to track storm activity related to the monsoon.
- 04The monsoon is declared based on specific rainfall measurements and wind conditions at designated weather stations in Kerala.
- 05The southwest monsoon accounts for approximately 80% of India's annual rainfall, impacting food security and agricultural incomes.
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The southwest monsoon's onset is expected today, June 4, 2026, with Kerala being the primary observation point. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had initially predicted the monsoon's arrival on May 26, but delays have occurred. To track the monsoon using IMD’s satellite imagery, users can access the IMD Satellite Page or the Rapid Scan Satellite Images, which provide updates on cloud movements. During the day, the Visible channel is recommended for viewing clouds, while the Infrared-1 channel is suitable for nighttime observations. Additionally, the Cloud Top Brightness Temperature (CTBT) feature allows users to monitor storm activity crucial for rainfall. The IMD officially declares the monsoon after specific rainfall and wind criteria are met at designated stations in Kerala. The southwest monsoon is vital for India, contributing about 80% of the annual rainfall and facilitating the cultivation of essential crops, thereby supporting food security and the livelihoods of many families.
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The timely arrival of the monsoon is crucial for agricultural activities in India, directly affecting food production and farmers' incomes.
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