IMD Predicts Further Monsoon Advance Across Maharashtra Over Next Few Days

The southwest monsoon is expected to advance further into Maharashtra and adjoining regions over the next two to three days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The forecast comes after the monsoon's progress slowed following its entry into the state on June 6, despite initially advancing rapidly along India’s western coast.

The monsoon reached Kerala on June 4, three days later than its normal onset date of June 1. Its arrival was also later than earlier projections that had indicated an onset around May 26. After making landfall in Kerala, the monsoon advanced swiftly, covering large parts of the west coast up to Goa by June 5 before entering Maharashtra the following day.

In its latest bulletin issued on Friday, the IMD reported further advancement of the monsoon into the entire northwest Bay of Bengal, additional parts of the west-central Bay of Bengal, and several areas of eastern India, including West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and Jharkhand. Meteorologists said prevailing atmospheric conditions remain favorable for further progress into remaining parts of Maharashtra and nearby regions.

Also Read: IMD Says Monsoon Reaches Maharashtra On Schedule Despite Late Kerala Onset

However, the monsoon's movement toward Mumbai and some other areas of Maharashtra has been slower than expected. Weather experts attribute the temporary slowdown to the influence of western disturbances and other weather systems originating from northwestern parts of the country, which have disrupted the normal flow of moisture-laden monsoon winds. Such interruptions are not uncommon during the monsoon season and can temporarily affect the pace of its advance.

Once these systems weaken or move away, the southwest monsoon is generally able to regain momentum and continue its progression across the country. The arrival of the monsoon is closely watched in Maharashtra, particularly by farmers, as the state has a significant agricultural sector dependent on seasonal rainfall. Adequate and timely rains are crucial for sowing operations of key kharif crops, including rice, soybean, cotton, and pulses.

Meteorologists will continue to monitor atmospheric conditions over the Arabian Sea and the Indian subcontinent to assess the monsoon’s next phase of advancement. If current forecasts hold, several parts of Maharashtra, including regions awaiting widespread rainfall, could see increased monsoon activity in the coming days, bringing relief from prevailing heat and supporting agricultural activities across the state.

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