Delhi Monsoon Likely To Withdraw By Thursday After Excess Rainfall
Delhi is set to witness the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon by Thursday, according to meteorological officials, marking the end of a season that arrived in the capital with rainfall nearly 41% above normal. The Safdarjung weather station, serving as the base reference for Delhi, has recorded 902.6mm of precipitation since June 1, significantly higher than the long-period average of 640.4mm for the same period.
Officials from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated that dry westerly to northwesterly winds are prevailing over the region, creating favourable conditions for the monsoon to recede. The withdrawal this week aligns closely with Delhi’s typical monsoon retreat date of September 25. Unlike last year, when the withdrawal was delayed until October 2, this year’s rainfall totals, though substantial, are unlikely to increase significantly in the coming days.
Weather experts note that the monsoon’s persistence over Delhi was aided by the continuous presence of the monsoon trough and the influence of active weather systems. Despite September logging only eight rainy days, Delhi has already recorded 136.1mm this month, exceeding the long-period average of 123.5mm. Earlier months also reported surplus rainfall, with May registering 186.4mm, June 107.1mm, July 259.3mm, and August 400.1mm the wettest August in 15 years.
The cumulative rainfall has led to Delhi experiencing one of its wetter monsoons in recent times, although it remains below the record levels of 1933, when the city received 1,421.6mm. Officials emphasised that this year’s precipitation has provided much-needed replenishment to reservoirs and groundwater levels, while also highlighting the importance of urban drainage planning to manage waterlogging in densely populated areas.
Forecasts indicate dry weather conditions will continue over Delhi-NCR until the monsoon fully withdraws. Maximum temperatures are expected to range between 33°C and 35°C, marginally above normal for this period. The IMD also reported that the monsoon has retreated further from adjoining regions of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab, with similar withdrawal expected over parts of Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir in the next 2–3 days.
Urban climate experts suggest that the season’s above-average rainfall underscores the need for sustainable city planning, particularly in drainage, water management, and flood mitigation. Incorporating green infrastructure and resilient urban systems can help cities like Delhi cope with variable rainfall and mitigate the impact of extreme weather events while supporting eco-friendly and equitable urban development.With the monsoon’s departure imminent, Delhi now transitions into a drier autumn phase, offering relief from persistent rains and paving the way for more predictable weather patterns as the city moves toward winter.
