Date: June 17, 2023
After a slight delay in its arrival over Kerala, the southwest monsoon is now poised to progress deeper into the southern peninsula and eastern regions of India, bringing relief from the scorching sun to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has stated that Cyclone Biparjoy has completely detached itself from the monsoonal flow, ensuring no impact on the progress of the seasonal rainfall system.
IMD Director General, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, explained that had Cyclone Biparjoy moved northwest towards Oman, it could have affected the monsoonal flow. However, its presence in the Arabian Sea had a positive impact on the advancement of the monsoon. Lingering over the southeast Arabian Sea, the cyclone strengthened the cross-equatorial flow, aiding the progress of the monsoon.
Between June 18 and 21, conditions are becoming favorable for the southwest monsoon to further advance over additional areas of the south peninsula, east India, and nearby regions. Although initially, Cyclone Biparjoy caused a delay in the onset of the monsoon and weakened its intensity by drawing moisture and convection away from the monsoon system, the southwest monsoon officially hit India on June 8, slightly later than the normal date of June 1.
It is important to note that a delay in the onset of the monsoon over Kerala does not necessarily mean a delay in the monsoon onset over northwest India. Despite evolving El Nino conditions, the IMD expects India to receive normal rainfall during the southwest monsoon season. El Nino, characterized by the warming of Pacific Ocean waters near South America, is typically associated with the weakening of monsoon winds and dry weather in India.
As the monsoon progresses, it is anticipated to provide respite from the summer heat, replenish water reservoirs, and support agricultural activities across the country. The IMD will continue to monitor the monsoon’s progress and provide regular updates.
In other news, a landslide has occurred, blocking NH6, a major road connecting South Assam, Tripura, and Mizoram with the rest of the country. Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to address the media at 5 pm regarding the incident and the steps being taken to restore connectivity. Further details and updates on this development will be reported as they become available.
Stay tuned for the latest weather updates and news coverage on the monsoon and its impact across India.