Delayed Monsoon Onset in Kerala: IMD Predicts Post-June 5 Arrival
Southwest monsoon delayed again: IMD models push Kerala onset past June 5 due to western disturbance and El Niño shadows
&w=1200&q=75)
Image: Zee News
The southwest monsoon's arrival in Kerala is now expected after June 5 due to persistent western disturbances and the influence of El Niño. This delay raises concerns about agricultural impacts as the monsoon is crucial for rainfall in India.
- 01The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts a weak monsoon onset in Kerala after June 5-6.
- 02The delay is attributed to western disturbances and cyclonic activity affecting wind patterns.
- 03For monsoon onset, at least 60% of stations in Kerala must report rainfall for two consecutive days, which has not yet been met.
- 04The IMD has revised its precipitation forecast for the season down to 90% of the Promedio Long Period (PPL), raising agricultural concerns.
- 05The monsoon is vital for India's economy, contributing about 80% of annual rainfall between June and September.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced that the southwest monsoon's arrival in Kerala will be delayed until after June 5 due to persistent western disturbances and cyclonic activity. Meteorologists indicate that this delay may result in a weak initial monsoon spell. The IMD's Global Forecast System (GFS) model suggests that strong upper-level winds necessary for monsoon progression will not establish until post-June 6. For the monsoon to officially commence, at least 60% of selected stations in Kerala must receive a prescribed amount of rainfall over two consecutive days, a requirement currently unmet due to insufficient wind speed despite satisfactory rainfall levels from pre-monsoon showers. Additionally, the IMD has lowered its precipitation forecast for the season to 90% of the Promedio Long Period (PPL), raising concerns about agricultural impacts, particularly influenced by El Niño conditions. The monsoon season is crucial for the Indian economy, providing about 80% of the country's rainfall during this period.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The delayed monsoon could affect agricultural preparations for Kharif planting, crucial for food production in India.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
How do you think the delayed monsoon will impact agriculture this season?
Connecting to poll...
More about Indian Meteorological Department
&w=1200&q=75)
Gujarat Faces Pre-Monsoon Deluge: Power Outages and Waterlogging Reported
Zee News • Jun 2, 2026

Chandigarh Experiences Coldest May Day in 57 Years with Unseasonal Rain and Hail
Hindustan Times • May 31, 2026
&w=1200&q=75)
Delhi Faces Severe Heatwave with 45°C Temperatures; Relief Expected Soon
Zee News • May 27, 2026
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.




