Pune: Southwest Monsoon Set to Arrive Early, Heavy Pre-Monsoon Showers Expected
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast an early arrival of the southwest monsoon in Maharashtra, including Pune, Mumbai, and the Konkan belt. The monsoon is advancing rapidly and is expected to reach the Kerala coast by May 27, ahead of its usual onset.
As of Saturday, the monsoon has already covered the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Maldives, Comoros Islands, and large parts of Sri Lanka. Over the next four to five days, it is expected to extend further over the southern Arabian Sea, the rest of Comoros, and the southern Bay of Bengal.
IMD Meteorologist Dr. Kashyapi told Pune Mirror, “The monsoon is progressing swiftly. It is likely to reach Kerala by May 27—earlier than its usual date. Based on current movement, it could reach Maharashtra about five to six days ahead of schedule.”
Traditionally, the monsoon arrives in Konkan by June 5, Pune by June 10, and Mumbai by June 11. However, this year, these regions may experience pre-monsoon showers and early monsoon rains well before these dates.
Widespread Rainfall Expected in Coming Days
Several parts of Maharashtra are already witnessing rainfall, with more expected:
- Vidarbha: Rain forecast for the next five days.
- Konkan: Rain likely on May 19 and 20.
- Central Maharashtra & Marathwada: Showers expected on May 20 and 21.
Additionally, Pune, Satara, Solapur, Sangli, and the Ghat sections may experience heavy rainfall with thunder, lightning, and wind speeds of 50–60 kmph over the next three days.
On May 19, Ahilyanagar, Dhule, and Nashik could receive light to moderate rain, especially in hilly regions. Palghar, North Madhya Maharashtra, Jalna, Hingoli, Nanded, and other districts may also see rain on May 19, 20, and 21.
The IMD has issued advisories warning of intense weather conditions, including gusty winds and lightning, in isolated areas.
