Monsoon to arrive early but El Nino set to undercut rainy season in India
The southwest monsoon is expected to arrive in Kerala on May 26, six days earlier than usual. However, the developing El Nino pattern may weaken the overall monsoon later in the season. Weather experts caution that an early arrival does not guarantee good rainfall throughout the monsoon period.
- ▪The India Meteorological Department predicts the monsoon will reach Kerala on May 26.
- ▪El Nino is expected to develop between May and July, potentially impacting rainfall patterns in India.
- ▪The IMD forecasts below-normal monsoon rainfall for the 2026 season, estimating it at 92% of the Long Period Average.
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Monsoon to arrive early but El Nino set to undercut rainy season in IndiaEl Nino is linked to unusually warm sea surface temperatures. In India, it is associated with harsher summers and weaker monsoons.Updated on: May 16, 2026 11:56 AM ISTReported by Jayashree NandiShare viaCopy link The southwest monsoon is expected to arrive over Kerala on May 26, nearly six days earlier than normal, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The usual onset date is June 1.Monsoon in India. (Representative image)An early arrival of monsoon generally brings hope of relief from heat and a good farming season.
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