The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a monsoon alert for 2025, Forecasting above-normal rainfall across most parts of the country. This year’s monsoon is expected to deliver Approximately 105% of the long-period average (LPA) Rainfall, marking a significant climatic event. The LPA for the monsoon season is 87 cm, and rainfall in the range of 96% to 104% of the LPA is considered normal.
🌧️ Monsoon Onset and Regional Forecasts
The southwest monsoon has been advancing steadily across India. In Kerala, The monsoon arrived earlier than usual, Reaching the state on May 27, four days ahead of the typical June 1 onset . This early arrival is beneficial for agriculture, providing timely rainfall for sowing kharif crops.
The IMD forecasts the likely onset of monsoon rains starting Saturday, June 14, 2025. Conditions are favorable for the southwest monsoon to advance, with storms and light to moderate rainfall expected across various districts.
⚠️ IMD Alerts and Warnings
The IMD has issued several weather alerts in anticipation of the monsoon’s intensification:
- Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad: A yellow alert has been issued from Thursday to Sunday (June 15), indicating the likely revival of monsoon activity. For June 14 and 15, heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated locations is expected.
- Kerala: Orange and yellow alerts have been issued across the state as the monsoon is expected to intensify after a brief period of calm. The alerts specifically target the northern districts, which are likely to experience heavy rainfall starting from the weekend.
- Karnataka: The IMD has issued a heavy rainfall alert for Bengaluru and various parts of the state. Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions as adverse weather conditions approach.
🌾 Implications for Agriculture
The forecasted above-normal rainfall is expected to benefit the agricultural sector, which relies heavily on the monsoon for irrigation. The timely arrival of rains is crucial for the sowing of kharif crops such as rice and maize. An adequate monsoon can lead to improved soil moisture, enhancing crop productivity and supporting food security.
🛡️ Safety Precautions
As the monsoon sets in, it’s essential to take necessary precautions to stay safe:
- Stay Informed: Keep updated with the latest weather alerts and warnings from the IMD.
- Avoid Waterlogged Areas: Do not venture into flooded or waterlogged areas to prevent accidents.
- Secure Loose Items: Ensure that outdoor items are secured to prevent them from being blown away by strong winds.
- Prepare Emergency Kits: Have an emergency kit ready, including essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, and flashlights.