Monsoon – Southwest Monsoon Reaches Delhi as Heavy Rain Disrupts Mumbai
Monsoon – The southwest monsoon expanded further across India on Thursday, bringing Delhi under its coverage and advancing into additional areas of Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Rajasthan. The India Meteorological Department said weather conditions remain favourable for the monsoon to move ahead in more parts of northwestern India over the next few days.
Monsoon covers Delhi and wider northern belt
According to the India Meteorological Department, the monsoon has now covered the remaining areas of Uttar Pradesh, the whole of Delhi, most parts of Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab, along with some additional parts of Gujarat and Rajasthan.
The department said the Northern Limit of Monsoon, as recorded on July 2, was passing through 22°N/60°E, 22°N/65°E, Porbandar, Vallabh Vidyanagar, Neemuch, Tonk, Bhiwani, Bhatinda and 32.5°N/70°E.
Delhi received the seasonal monsoon on Thursday. The normal onset date for the monsoon in the national capital is June 27, placing this year’s arrival several days later than the usual schedule.
Further progress likely over next few days
The weather agency said the atmospheric situation is suitable for the southwest monsoon to spread further into parts of the North Arabian Sea and Gujarat. It is also expected to cover the remaining areas of Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab, besides more locations in Rajasthan, during the next two to three days.
The monsoon’s advance is closely watched across these regions because rainfall is important for agriculture, water storage and relief from high summer temperatures. However, the intensity and distribution of rain can vary significantly from one district to another.
Heavy showers affect Delhi and Mumbai
Heavy rain was reported in Delhi and Mumbai from early Thursday morning, affecting road movement and daily routines in several areas. Water accumulation on roads and slower traffic were reported as persistent showers continued in parts of both cities.
In Mumbai, heavy rainfall also affected suburban rail operations. Central Railway services were running late during the morning hours after reduced visibility disrupted train movement, railway officials said.
The India Meteorological Department issued a nowcast red alert for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and Raigad districts. The alert warned of moderate to intense rain spells at isolated locations for a three-hour period until 10:45 am.
Mumbai civic body issues rainfall advisory
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation said Mumbai and its suburbs could receive heavy to very heavy rainfall on Thursday. It also warned that some locations may experience extremely heavy rain overnight and into Friday morning.
The civic body said gusty winds of around 50 to 60 kmph may occur at times across the city. Residents were advised to remain cautious, particularly in areas vulnerable to waterlogging and flooding.
Authorities asked people to avoid low-lying areas, unstable structures and locations where rainwater tends to collect quickly. They were also advised not to stand near trees or electric poles during strong winds and heavy showers.
Residents urged to follow weather updates
The weather department and civic authorities urged residents in affected districts to keep track of official forecasts and local advisories. People travelling during periods of intense rain have been asked to allow extra time and avoid routes known for flooding where possible.
With the monsoon continuing to advance, more parts of northern and western India are expected to receive rainfall in the coming days. Local administrations are likely to monitor changing weather conditions, particularly in urban areas where heavy rain can quickly affect transport, drainage and public services.