The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Tuesday that the southwest monsoon has covered the entire country six days ahead of the usual schedule. According to the IMD, “The southwest monsoon has further advanced into the remaining parts of Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab today. Thus, it covered the entire country on 2nd July 2024, against the normal date of July 8 (six days before the normal date of covering the entire India).”
The monsoon had already reached Kerala and the northeastern region on May 30, arriving two and six days earlier than usual, respectively. However, the monsoon’s progression slowed down after advancing normally up to Maharashtra, leading to delays in the onset of rains in several states, including West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. This delay exacerbated the impact of a severe heatwave in northwest India. From June 11 to June 27, the country experienced 16 days of below-normal rainfall activity, resulting in an overall below-normal precipitation of 147.2 mm in June, compared to the normal of 165.3 mm for the month. This marks the seventh-lowest June rainfall since 2001. June rainfall contributes 15 percent of the total precipitation of 87 cm recorded during the four-month monsoon season in the country.
Despite the initial sluggish pace, the early nationwide coverage of the monsoon is expected to bring relief. The IMD forecasted on Monday that India could experience above-normal rainfall in July, with heavy rains potentially causing floods in the western Himalayan states and river basins in the central parts of the country. This early arrival of the monsoon is seen as a crucial development, particularly for the agricultural sector, which is highly dependent on monsoon rains. Early and adequate rainfall can lead to timely sowing of crops and can significantly impact the yield and overall agricultural output. The early arrival also has implications for water reservoirs and hydroelectric power generation, ensuring sufficient water levels for the upcoming dry months.
While the early monsoon is a positive sign, the IMD’s caution regarding potential heavy rains and floods in certain regions highlights the need for preparedness and proactive measures. Authorities in flood-prone areas, particularly in the western Himalayan states and central river basins, must remain vigilant and ensure that adequate measures are in place to mitigate the impact of heavy rains. The IMD’s announcement of the early monsoon coverage across India brings both hope and caution. The timely rains can boost agricultural productivity and water resources, but the risk of flooding necessitates readiness and careful monitoring. The nation looks forward to a beneficial and well-managed monsoon season.
