Delhi-NCR likely to receive monsoon between June 25-30; rain brings temporary relief, AQI remains poor
New Delhi, June 6
The India Meteorological Department has indicated that the southwest monsoon is likely to reach Delhi and the wider National Capital Region between June 25 and June 30, offering residents a clearer timeline for the arrival of the much-awaited rainy season.
The forecast comes after thunderstorms and scattered rainfall brought significant relief from the intense summer heat across Delhi-NCR on Thursday. With temperatures easing temporarily, attention has now shifted to the progress of the monsoon, which remains crucial for the region after weeks of sweltering heat.
The southwest monsoon made its onset over Kerala on June 4, three days later than its normal date and five days after the IMD's initial forecast. Despite the delayed start, weather experts expect the monsoon to advance steadily and cover most parts of the country by the third week of June.
According to the IMD's monsoon progression map, Delhi, Noida, Gurugram and Ghaziabad are expected to witness the onset of the monsoon between June 25 and 30. The weather system is also forecast to advance into parts of Haryana, Punjab and Chandigarh during the same period.
Several northern and hilly regions, including parts of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, may also receive rainfall around the same time, bringing respite from the prevailing heatwave-like conditions.
A Western Disturbance that became active around June 3 has already provided relief to millions across North India, where temperatures had remained exceptionally high in recent weeks. However, meteorologists have cautioned that sudden spells of heavy rain could lead to waterlogging in urban areas, while strong winds and lightning may pose risks in open spaces and mountainous regions.
The IMD has forecast continued thunderstorm and rainfall activity across several areas on June 6 before weather conditions gradually stabilise. Temperatures are expected to rise again after the current spell subsides and may remain elevated until the monsoon progresses further north towards the end of the month.
Last year, the southwest monsoon reached Delhi on June 29, two days later than its normal onset date of June 27, based on the 1961-2019 average.
Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality remained in the "poor" category. Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 284, while Mundka (239), Wazirpur (214), Okhla Phase-2 (208) and IIT Delhi (187) were among the city's most polluted locations.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Every year it's the same story—monsoon delayed, heatwave, then waterlogging and chaos when it finally arrives. Hope the civic bodies have actually done something about drains this time. Still, I'll take the rain over this scorching sun any day! ☔️
Living in Gurugram, the temporary relief from thunderstorms was amazing. But it's worrying that the AQI is still 'poor' even after rain. We need long-term solutions for air pollution, not just waiting for monsoon to fix everything. The construction dust and vehicle emissions don't stop.
As someone who grew up in Delhi, I remember when June 27 was the 'normal' monsoon date. Now it's June 29 or 30, and even that keeps slipping. Climate change is real, yaar. But at least the Western Disturbance gave us some relief—better than nothing. Just hoping the monsoon doesn't disappoint like last year.
I'm happy for the rain, but honestly, the IMD needs to improve its forecasts. They keep changing dates every few days. And waterlogging in Noida and Delhi is a yearly headache—office commutes become a nightmare. Fingers crossed the authorities have done their homework this time. 🌧️
The AQI being poor even after rain shows how deep our pollution problem is. I look at the dust and smog in Ghaziabad every day—monsoon can't wash that away. We need stronger regulations on construction and industry, not just a 'wait for monsoon' attitude. Still, let's enjoy the cool breeze while it lasts.
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