Southwest Monsoon Arrives Eight Days Early in Kerala, Triggers Heavy Rain Alerts

The southwest monsoon arrived in Kerala eight days earlier than usual on May 24, marking the earliest onset since 2009 and well within the predicted forecast window by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This early arrival is significant as the monsoon season brings over 70% of India’s annual rainfall, crucial for the agriculture-dependent economy. The IMD issued warnings for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in Kerala and surrounding regions, including red and orange alerts for several districts, causing disruptions such as power outages and fallen trees. Historical records note that the earliest monsoon onset was May 11, 1918, and the most delayed was June 18, 1972, highlighting variability in monsoon patterns. The early monsoon is expected to improve crop prospects and may encourage the lifting of remaining export restrictions on farm goods. The rains are forecasted to advance across India through June, typically covering the entire nation by mid-July.