Southwest Monsoon is steadily moving forward, and weather officials indicate that it is likely to reach Kerala around May 26. At present, the monsoon’s northern limit is passing through several parts of the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal, while conditions remain favourable for its further advance over the southeast Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the Andaman Sea during the next two to three days.
As the monsoon progresses, India is witnessing contrasting weather conditions. While northeastern and southern states are expected to receive heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds, several northern and central regions may continue to face intense heatwave conditions over the coming days.
States including Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are likely to experience light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms between May 18 and May 23. Gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kmph may affect several areas. The weather department has also issued an alert for very heavy rainfall in Assam and Meghalaya on May 22 and 23. Arunachal Pradesh may continue to witness rain, lightning activity, and unstable weather conditions during this period.
Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry are expected to witness unsettled weather over the next few days. Several districts may receive heavy showers along with thunderstorms and strong winds reaching 50 to 60 kmph. Interior Karnataka could also witness isolated hailstorm activity. Heavy rainfall in Kerala and coastal Karnataka may lead to waterlogging in low-lying areas, while coastal regions are likely to remain under weather watch.
West Bengal, Sikkim, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha are expected to experience rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning activity. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands may witness squally weather conditions with wind speeds reaching up to 70 kmph in some areas. Residents in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha have been advised to remain cautious during lightning activity and avoid staying in open fields or under trees during thunderstorms.
Heatwave Conditions to Intensify in North and Central India:
Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Vidarbha are likely to continue experiencing heatwave conditions over the next few days. Uttar Pradesh may face severe heatwave conditions between May 19 and May 23.
According to weather forecasts, maximum temperatures across northwest India may rise by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius. However, parts of Maharashtra and Gujarat could witness a slight drop in temperatures after May 20.
Fishermen Advised to Avoid Sea Regions:
The weather department has warned fishermen against venturing into the Bay of Bengal, Andaman Sea, south Bay regions, and the Comorin area between May 18 and May 22 due to rough sea conditions and strong winds.
Important Public Advisory:
FAQs:
1. When will the Southwest Monsoon reach Kerala?
The Southwest Monsoon is expected to reach Kerala around May 26.
2. Which states may receive heavy rainfall?
Assam, Meghalaya, Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and northeastern states may receive heavy rainfall.
3. Which areas are under heatwave alert?
Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh are under heatwave alert.
4. Why are fishermen advised to avoid sea regions?
Strong winds and rough sea conditions are expected in the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea regions.
5. What precautions should people take during thunderstorms?
People should avoid open fields, stay indoors, and avoid standing under trees during lightning activity.
