Monsoon Arrives Early in Delhi with Record-breaking Rains Expected

Monsoon is anticipated to arrive in Delhi on Tuesday, marking an earlier onset than the traditional June 30 date, with the India Meteorological Department issuing a yellow alert for rain and thunderstorms throughout the day.

The IMD has indicated favorable weather conditions for the monsoon to progress into additional regions, including Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi.

Historically, if the rains proceed as predicted on June 24, it would stand as the earliest monsoon onset since 2013, which witnessed rains commencing by June 16.

For perspective, the monsoonal downpour graced Delhi on June 28 last year, June 25 in 2023, June 30 in 2022, and remarkably late on July 13 in 2021.

The forecast suggests a generally cloudy sky with light to moderate rainfall, alongside the potential for thunderstorms and lightning over the next few days.

A yellow alert remains effective in Delhi, an IMD advisory signaling the necessity for caution amid weather conditions that might wield significant impact.

As of now, Delhi has registered a trifecta of rainy days with rainfall levels exceeding 2.4 mm this month.

Observations note that the capital city has already surpassed its standard June rainfall tally of 43.3 mm, recording an impressive 89 mm thus far.

Last June, the region experienced a significant 243.4 mm of rainfall, which notably exceeded the typical monthly norm of 74.1 mm.

The monsoon struck Delhi on June 28, 2024, delivering intense thunderstorms, coupled with heavy to exceedingly heavy rains in the early dawn.

On this single day, the main weather station located at Safdarjung documented a remarkable 228.1 mm of rain, as reported by IMD data.

(With inputs from agencies.)