In a significant development marking the start of India’s southwest monsoon season, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Monday that monsoon winds are likely to reach the Andaman Sea, southern Bay of Bengal, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands by May 13.
This early movement aligns with the normal monsoon schedule, which usually sees the southwest monsoon arrive in the Andaman region during the second week of May.
According to the IMD’s latest weather bulletin, key atmospheric indicators are signaling a monsoon onset within the next 24 hours. These include:
-
Increased humidity levels
-
Strengthening of south-westerly winds
-
Formation of convective clouds
“The conditions are fully supportive of monsoon progress,” an IMD official stated, emphasizing the current weather dynamics in the Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas.
As the monsoon system advances, moderate to heavy rainfall is expected in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with possibilities of thunderstorms and gusty winds. In light of this, fishermen have been strongly advised to avoid venturing into the sea due to rough conditions expected over the next few days.
The onset of the monsoon in the Andaman region is a critical meteorological milestone, setting the stage for its gradual movement towards the Indian mainland, including Kerala—where monsoon usually arrives by end-May or early June.
While Odisha continues to reel under a severe heat wave, with Bhubaneswar, Jharsuguda, and other districts recording temperatures above 40°C, relief may be on the horizon as monsoon winds progress further northward in the coming weeks.
The IMD will continue to monitor conditions and issue frequent updates to aid planning for agriculture, water management, and disaster preparedness. An early and well-paced monsoon could significantly benefit the kharif sowing season and improve water reserves across the country.
