Heavy rains lashed Mumbai on Monday, marking the earliest recorded arrival of the southwest monsoon in the city’s history. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that this early onset is due to a strong east-southeastward moving cloud cluster that has brought intense rainfall across several parts of the city.
Waterlogging was reported in many low-lying areas of Mumbai, causing traffic delays and public inconvenience. The rains first hit the city on May 28, with an orange alert being issued on May 26. In fact, May 2025 has officially gone down as the wettest May Mumbai has ever seen.
According to the IMD, the monsoon season (June to September 2025) is expected to bring above-normal rainfall to Central India and the South Peninsular region, which includes states like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. This means rainfall in these areas will exceed 106% of the Long Period Average (LPA), offering a positive sign for agriculture in the region.
Normal rainfall (between 92-108% of LPA) is expected in Northwest India, which includes parts of Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, and Delhi. However, Northeast India—traditionally known for heavy monsoon rains—is expected to experience below-normal rainfall this year (less than 94% of LPA).
The IMD has also mentioned that the Monsoon Core Zone (MCZ)—a key agricultural belt in India—will benefit from above-normal rainfall. This region covers much of Central India and is vital for rain-fed farming, making this forecast good news for farmers and food production.
While the heavy rains are welcome for easing water shortages and boosting agriculture, they also bring the risk of urban flooding and traffic disruptions in cities like Mumbai. Monday’s rainfall led to waterlogging in several neighborhoods and disrupted normal life.
Key Highlights:
- Mumbai experiences the earliest monsoon onset on record.
- May 2025 was the wettest May in Mumbai’s history.
- IMD predicts above-normal rainfall (over 106% of LPA) for Central and South Peninsular India.
- Northwest India to get normal rainfall (92–108% of LPA).
- Northeast India may receive below-normal rainfall (less than 94% of LPA).
- Rain in Mumbai caused waterlogging in many parts of the city.
- Orange alert was issued on May 26, ahead of early rains.
- The Monsoon Core Zone, essential for rain-fed crops, is expected to benefit from heavy rains.
This early and intense start to the monsoon is a reminder of changing climate patterns and the need for improved urban infrastructure to manage seasonal challenges. The IMD will continue to monitor and provide updates throughout the season to help people stay safe and plan better.
