Monsoon makes onset in Kerala 3 days late. IMD issues storm and heavy rain alerts for 24 states.
According to the IMD, heavy rain is expected in parts of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka over the next seven days, bringing much-needed respite from the heat.
Meteorologists estimate that the monsoon will advance rapidly over the next two to three days. It is expected to cover Goa, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and northeastern states soon.
Usually, the monsoon reaches Kerala on June 1. This is the seventh time in the last ten years that the monsoon has been delayed. The longest delay was in 1972.
An IMD official stated, 'The monsoon progression conditions are highly favorable, and it is expected to advance rapidly towards central and eastern parts of the country soon.'
The India Meteorological Department has issued alerts for thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds in 24 states, including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Delhi.
Hilly states like Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh have warnings for heavy rain and hailstorms. Delhi is also under a Yellow Alert for the next two days.
An Orange Alert has been issued for Kerala's Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam districts due to heavy downpours, with rainfall expected between 11 to 20 cm.
Pre-monsoon showers have started in 39 districts of Madhya Pradesh. Hailstorms are expected in Ujjain and Gwalior, while monsoon is likely to enter after June 20.
In Rajasthan, an Orange Alert for storms and rain is active in 9 districts. Dungarpur witnessed hailstorms, though Bikaner remains hot with temperatures over 43 degrees.
An alert for storms and rain has been issued for 42 districts of Uttar Pradesh. The monsoon is expected to hit UP between June 18 and 20.
On the other hand, Bihar continues to face heatwave conditions in 6 districts. Temperatures in Buxar and Gaya are expected to touch 42 degrees Celsius.
Monsoon activity has also intensified in northeastern states like Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh. Torrential rain is predicted in these areas for five days.
The arrival of the monsoon has brought joy to farmers. However, doctors advise caution against seasonal illnesses and skin issues during this transition phase.
Stay in safe places during strong winds and storms. It is wise to stay away from trees and electric poles during lightning to avoid accidents.
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Pradeep Budawat
