Relief on the Horizon: After a scorching summer, Delhi is ready for monsoon showers. IMD forecasts an early onset, but advises residents to prepare for potential waterlogging and take necessary precautions.
BY PC Bureau
New Delhi, June 15, 2025 – After a prolonged and scorching heatwave, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has delivered welcome news for Delhi and large parts of North India: the southwest monsoon is set to arrive earlier than its usual schedule, bringing much-needed relief and widespread rainfall. The capital region can brace for significant showers between June 19 and June 25, a notable acceleration from its typical June 30 onset.
This year’s monsoon has demonstrated a remarkably active progression across the country. Its journey began with an early onset over Kerala on May 24, a full week ahead of its normal date. The system then rapidly advanced, reaching Mumbai by May 26 – an impressive 16 days earlier than usual and marking one of the earliest arrivals in 75 years for the city. This swift movement has been bolstered by favorable meteorological conditions, including the formation of low-pressure systems over both the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal.
While the monsoon experienced a brief lull in its northward march from late May to early June, which contributed to the resurgence of intense heatwave conditions across Northwest and Central India, it regained significant momentum around June 10-11. The IMD’s extended range forecast confirms that the monsoon is now firmly on track to cover the remaining parts of Central and East India, along with certain areas of Northwest India, by June 18. Following this, the vital rain-bearing system will push further northwestward, steadily encompassing western Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab, before finally reaching Delhi.
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Delhi’s Outlook: Cooler Temperatures and Monsoon Showers Expected
Delhi has already begun to experience a tangible shift in its weather patterns, with scattered pre-monsoon showers providing a crucial respite from the recent oppressive heat. The IMD’s forecast for the upcoming week (June 16-22) indicates that this relief is set to continue, with increasing chances of substantial rainfall.
On Sunday, June 15, the capital witnessed initial signs of this change, as light rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds swept through the city, effectively breaking the severe heatwave spell. Looking ahead, from Monday, June 16, through Wednesday, June 19, Delhi is expected to experience light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by generally cloudy skies and continued possibilities of thunderstorms and lightning. These conditions will progressively become more conducive to the full establishment of the monsoon. As the week progresses, towards Thursday, June 20, and into the weekend (June 22), the intensity and widespread nature of the rainfall could increase, signaling the monsoon’s firm grip on the region.
Crucially, the maximum temperatures, which had soared past in recent weeks, are now projected to fall significantly, settling comfortably in the range of . Minimum temperatures will also see a gradual decline, likely hovering around . The IMD has unequivocally stated that no heatwave conditions are anticipated in Delhi for the foreseeable future, offering residents a much-anticipated break from the extreme summer.
Early Monsoon: A Double-Edged Sword for the Capital
While the earlier arrival of the monsoon is undoubtedly a cause for celebration for the general public and a significant boon for the agricultural sector, particularly for the timely sowing of Kharif crops in the surrounding states, it also presents a familiar set of challenges for a major urban center like Delhi.
The most immediate and apparent benefit will be the substantial cooling effect, bringing down the mercury after a punishing hot spell. The increased rainfall is also expected to significantly improve Delhi’s air quality by washing away dust and pollutants. Furthermore, early and sustained rains are crucial for replenishing vital groundwater levels and increasing water availability in the Yamuna River and local reservoirs.
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However, Delhi’s infrastructure, particularly its drainage system, has historically struggled to cope with heavy monsoon downpours. This often leads to widespread waterlogging on roads, causing severe traffic congestion and disrupting daily life across the city. Stagnant water, an unfortunate byproduct of inadequate drainage, also creates ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes, elevating the risk of vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria. Moreover, intense rainfall can lead to delays in public transportation, flight cancellations, and an increased potential for road accidents.
In light of these anticipated conditions, the Delhi government and municipal bodies have reportedly initiated preparedness measures, including the crucial task of cleaning drains and inspecting flood-prone areas. The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) is also closely monitoring the situation.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant by staying informed through weather updates from the IMD and local authorities. It is recommended to exercise caution by avoiding waterlogged areas, taking proactive steps to prevent mosquito breeding around homes, and planning commutes with potential delays in mind. As the city anticipates the arrival of the life-giving rains, preparedness will be key to navigating the season effectively.
