India And Monsoon: A Saga Explained

When it comes to monsoon, India has mixed feelings about them. For some, it’s a pleasant relief from the intense temperatures and humidity levels, while for others, it’s simply an inconvenience in their daily lives. And yet for others, the arrival of the monsoon is a cause for worry, for it poses a threat to their very lives. The love-hate relationship between India and monsoon continues in 2024 as well.

In the past few weeks, India has been witnessing a variety of weather conditions. Climate change has increased the chances of severe heatwaves across the nation. While the northwest and central India struggle to survive in the scorching and record-breaking temperatures, monsoon has officially started in Kerala and parts of the northeast. With the northern regions prepare to avoid heat strokes, the southern and northeastern parts prepare themselves for potential floods as heavy rainfall descends upon them.

Below is a rundown on the weather conditions in India so far and what is expected for the next few days:

1. The southwest monsoon has arrived in Kerala and has advanced into many parts of northeast India.
2. A red alert has been issued for Assam and Meghalaya, where heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected over the weekend.
3. In contrast, the north and parts of central India have been sweltering under an intense heatwave, with over 37 cities recording temperatures over 45 degrees Celsius this week.
4. Heatwave conditions are likely to gradually reduce over northwest and central India from May 30. Meanwhile, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued caution while going outside and suffering from a heatstroke.
5. Meanwhile, the IMD issued a clarification on reports of Delhi recording a temperature of 52.3 degrees Celsius. The error was attributed to a “faulty reading.”
6. Some relief is expected in the northwest region, with thunderstorms and light showers expected from May 30 onwards, which will bring down the temperatures and offer some respite to the people.
7. The monsoon is expected to reach the capital by the end of June.
8. Monsoon is highly important for India and its agriculture, with over 52 percent of the net cultivated area dependent on rainfall.
9. In India, West Bengal was hit by a severe cyclonic storm called Remal. The cyclone has triggered heavy rainfall in low-lying regions of Manipur, leading to a landslide in the hilly regions. At least two people have died in two separate incidents of landslides and flooding.
10. The IMD has predicted that India will receive an above-average monsoon season this year.