IMD predicts late monsoon arrival in Gujarat this year, likely after June 20

Gujarat may have to wait longer for relief from the scorching summer, with the southwest monsoon now expected to arrive only after June 20 this year, later than the previous two years.

According to India Meteorological Department, Gujarat is likely to witness a delayed onset of monsoon in 2026. The state had officially received monsoon on June 11 in 2024 and June 16 in 2025. This year, however, conditions indicate the monsoon may advance into the state only after June 20.

While the proper monsoon may arrive late, pre-monsoon activity is expected to begin from the first week of June, bringing isolated cloud cover, gusty winds and scattered rainfall in parts of the state.

Meanwhile, Gujarat continues to reel under intense heat conditions. Ahmedabad recorded an average maximum temperature of 42°C on Saturday, and temperatures are expected to hover between 41°C and 45°C through the coming week, with dry conditions and severe heat likely to continue. Weather agencies have warned of dehydration and heatstroke risks due to prolonged exposure to the sun.Other major cities also reported severe heat:

Rajkot: 42.7°C

Amreli: 42.3°C

Gandhinagar: 41.5°C

Vadodara: 41°C

Bhuj: 40.7°C

Deesa: 40.2°C

Surat: 39.8°C

Bhavnagar: 39.2°C

According to forecasts, temperatures across Gujarat could dip by nearly 2-3°C after the next two days, offering limited relief from the ongoing heatwave.

For the coming week, weather officials expect hot and dry conditions to persist across most parts of the state, with no major rainfall activity likely before the end of May.

Humidity levels are also expected to gradually increase in coastal areas as pre-monsoon patterns begin developing over the Arabian Sea.