The southwest monsoon advanced into parts of the southeast Arabian Sea, southwest and southeast Bay of Bengal, many areas of the Andaman Sea, the entire Nicobar Islands, and some parts of the Andaman Islands, including Sri Vijaya Puram today, May 16, 2026.
The early arrival brought monsoon showers to Sri Vijaya Puram, marking the beginning of the rainy season in the region.
Meteorological officials confirmed that conditions remain favourable for further advancement into more parts of the southeast Arabian Sea, southwest and southeast Bay of Bengal, the remaining Andaman Islands, the Andaman Sea, and sections of the east‑central Bay of Bengal within the next three to four days.
The early onset in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands signals the gradual approach of the monsoon toward mainland India. Forecasts suggest that Kerala may witness the arrival of the southwest monsoon around May 26, several days ahead of the usual June 1 onset date.
The monsoon’s progress is crucial for agriculture, water resources, and overall climate balance across the subcontinent. Farmers and communities dependent on rainfall closely monitor its advance each year, as nearly 70 per cent of India’s annual rainfall comes during this season.
