The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that the southwest monsoon, which remained inactive for nearly two weeks, is expected to restart its northward journey beginning June 11. This development is likely to bring much-needed rainfall to several states that have been awaiting relief from dry conditions.
According to the IMD, favorable atmospheric patterns are now emerging, particularly over the Bay of Bengal, which will support the onward movement of the monsoon system. The weather office has stated that the rain-bearing winds are likely to cover regions including Maharashtra, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh in the coming days.
Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the Director General of Meteorology, noted that the monsoon’s revival will help improve rainfall distribution across central and eastern India, where precipitation has been significantly below normal since the start of June.
Data from the IMD reveals that, between June 1 and June 9, the country witnessed a rainfall deficit of around 20%. The shortfall has impacted agricultural activities, especially in areas that rely solely on monsoon rains for sowing crops such as paddy, pulses, and oilseeds.
Experts believe the temporary halt in monsoon progress was due to unfavorable conditions such as the weakening of the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) and the absence of strong low-pressure zones over the Bay of Bengal. However, the current shift in weather dynamics suggests an improvement in monsoon strength and coverage.
Parts of eastern and central India, including states like West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Vidarbha, have already started experiencing early showers. Over the next few days, rainfall is expected to become more widespread, with isolated heavy spells likely in coastal and interior regions of Maharashtra and adjoining areas.
Agricultural departments across the affected states have advised farmers to prepare for sowing activities, as the resumption of rainfall will likely create favorable soil conditions. Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture has urged states to implement contingency plans to maximize crop output and manage water efficiently.
Meanwhile, urban centers such as Mumbai and Nagpur are preparing for possible waterlogging and traffic disruptions as heavy rains return. Local administrations have begun clearing drainage systems and deploying disaster response units in areas vulnerable to flooding.
