IMD Announces Early Monsoon Arrival Across India, Including Delhi, on June 29

The southwest monsoon has enveloped India, including Delhi, nine days ahead of schedule, reaching the entire country on June 29, 2025. Heavy rainfall is battering regions from Himachal Pradesh to Kerala and Uttarakhand to Uttar Pradesh, with the IMD forecasting intense showers until July 4. This early monsoon onset, the fastest since 2009, brings relief to farmers but raises concerns about flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas.

Nationwide Monsoon Advance

The IMD attributes the monsoon’s rapid progression to favorable atmospheric conditions, including a strengthened Arabian Sea branch. Delhi received light rains on June 29, while Kerala, Karnataka, and Maharashtra are experiencing torrential downpours, boosting reservoir levels critical for agriculture. In northern states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, heavy rainfall has triggered orange alerts, with risks of flash floods in low-lying areas. Uttar Pradesh, still in the early monsoon phase, is bracing for heavier showers, aiding Kharif crop sowing but straining urban drainage systems.

The India Meteorological Department say, "The monsoon has covered the entire country on June 29, 2025, against the expected date of July 8, 2025." pic.twitter.com/uUloNylS5p

— ANI (@ANI) June 29, 2025

Regional Impacts and Challenges

In Himachal Pradesh, districts like Kullu and Shimla face landslide risks, with roads like the Manali-Leh highway temporarily closed. Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi reported a cloudburst, disrupting the Char Dham Yatra. Kerala’s coastal regions are grappling with waterlogging, impacting fishing communities, while Mumbai in Maharashtra faces urban flooding. The IMD’s warning of heavy rains until July 4 has prompted authorities to deploy National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams in high-risk zones, with schools closed in parts of Himachal and Kerala to ensure safety.

Agricultural Boost, Urban Woes

However, urban centers like Delhi and Lucknow face waterlogging due to inadequate drainage. The IMD urges residents to avoid flood-prone areas and monitor real-time alerts.

Preparing for the Deluge

As India embraces the monsoon’s early arrival, authorities are ramping up preparedness to mitigate flood risks. With heavy rainfall forecast until July 4, coordinated efforts between state governments and the NDRF aim to protect lives and infrastructure, ensuring the monsoon’s benefits outweigh its challenges.