The Southwest Monsoon has officially reached parts of southern Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, offering relief from the prolonged heatwave. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning over the coming days.
Monsoon Reaches Eastern UP After Delay
The monsoon hit eastern Uttar Pradesh nearly five days late, with light to moderate rain showers recorded in Sonbhadra, Ballia, Mau, and Ghazipur districts. According to the IMD, favourable weather conditions will likely help the monsoon move deeper into the state over the next 2–3 days.
A well-marked low-pressure area near Gangetic West Bengal is predicted to move northwestward, boosting rainfall in Uttar Pradesh from June 19 onwards. IMD scientist Atul Kumar Singh warned of widespread thunderstorms, lightning, and isolated very heavy rain through June 22.
After facing temperatures above 40°C, residents welcomed the rainfall. Still, authorities have urged caution, especially regarding the rising risk of lightning strikes. The IMD has also warned of potential damage to kutcha houses and fragile structures, advising local administrations to remain alert.
Early Monsoon Arrival in Rajasthan
Unlike UP, Rajasthan witnessed an early monsoon onset, arriving nearly a week ahead of schedule. Rain entered from southern and southeastern Rajasthan, leading to moderate to heavy downpours in the eastern districts.
Radheyshyam Sharma, Director of the Jaipur Meteorological Centre, reported that Kaman in Bharatpur saw the heaviest rainfall with 101 mm in 24 hours. A low-pressure system over central Rajasthan is expected to sustain monsoon activity, with more rain predicted in the next 48 hours.
Monsoon Set to Advance Further by June-End
The IMD forecast shows the monsoon expanding further by the end of June to cover northern Arabian Sea, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Bihar. State authorities in both UP and Rajasthan are preparing for more intense weather patterns, asking the public to follow weather updates and safety advisories closely.
