Southwest monsoon to enter Karnataka on Jun 4; IMD forecasts heavy rain, thunderstorms

Bengaluru, Jun 3: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has finally brought good news for people awaiting the monsoon. After a prolonged wait, the southwest monsoon is set to make its onset over the Kerala coast on June 4, marking the official beginning of the rainy season across the country.

Kerala is expected to receive the first impact of the monsoon, with the IMD forecasting heavy rainfall ranging from 7 cm to 20 cm in several parts of the state over the next six to seven days. Moisture-laden winds over the Arabian Sea have strengthened considerably and are expected to trigger widespread rainfall not only in Kerala but also in parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Apart from rain, the IMD has warned of strong winds blowing at speeds of 40 to 50 kmph across peninsular south India over the next few days. The region is also likely to witness intense thunderstorms accompanied by lightning.

With nearly half of India’s agricultural land dependent on rainfall, the onset of the monsoon is considered crucial for the country’s economy. The rains are expected to replenish reservoirs and support hydropower generation. However, the weather department has advised the public to exercise caution during outdoor activities amid the possibility of severe weather conditions.

Weather experts are closely monitoring the progress of the monsoon across the country in the coming weeks. Timely rainfall is expected to bring relief and optimism to farmers. The public has also been urged to remain alert and take necessary precautions.

A forecast of sunny conditions interspersed with cloudy skies has been issued for coastal districts of Karnataka, including Kasargod. Isolated light rainfall is likely in foothill regions during the evening and night hours, while a few coastal areas may experience light drizzle late at night. North Kannada district may witness cloudy weather or light drizzle.

Cloud cover is expected to increase across the coastal districts, with indications that the monsoon could set in from June 4.

Parts of Kodagu, Hassan and Chikkamagaluru districts are likely to receive evening and night showers accompanied by thunder and lightning. Isolated areas of Shivamogga district may experience light rainfall. Thunderstorms during the evening and night are expected to continue in the Malnad districts over the coming days.

In view of the forecast of heavy rainfall, residents of low-lying areas and farmers have been advised to take necessary precautionary measures. Weather conditions are expected to remain cool over the next few days, and people are advised to keep track of updates issued by the IMD regarding the progress and intensity of the monsoon.