Monsoon likely to arrive early in Gujarat by June 10, heavy rains expected this year

The southwest monsoon is expected to make an early entry into Gujarat this year, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting its arrival in South Gujarat between June 10 and 12, ahead of the usual onset date of June 15.

The early arrival aligns with broader forecasts released by the IMD on April 15, which projected above-normal rainfall across most of India, including Gujarat. The country is expected to receive 105% of its average rainfall, raising hopes for a strong agricultural season but also prompting preparedness for heavy downpours.

All major weather monitoring agencies have indicated that this year’s monsoon will not only arrive early but will also bring intense and widespread rainfall, with the possibility of stormy and torrential conditions in some areas of the state.

In a notable development, even before the official onset of the pre-monsoon season, Gujarat has already received an average of 31 mm (about 1.25 inches) of unseasonal rain over the past week, hinting at an active atmospheric build-up.

Last year, the monsoon had entered Kerala on May 30 and reached Saurashtra and South Gujarat by June 10, but stalled temporarily before fully covering the state by June 27. This year, forecasters expect a more consistent and vigorous progression of monsoon currents.