The southwest monsoon has made a historic and intense onset in India, breaking multiple records and causing widespread rainfall across states like Kerala, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. The monsoon, which typically begins in June, has arrived significantly earlier in 2025, bringing with it both relief from summer heat and considerable disruptions.
Record Rainfall in Mumbai
In an extraordinary weather event, mumbai rains on May 26 marked the city’s wettest May day in over a century. Mumbai recorded a staggering 295 mm of rainfall, surpassing the previous record of 279.4 mm set in May 1918. The downpour brought the city to a halt with severe waterlogging and traffic disruptions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for the city, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall at isolated locations until the morning of May 27. This instance of mumbai rains is not only historic but also signals the beginning of an unusually strong monsoon season.
Early Monsoon in Kerala and Maharashtra
The monsoon reached Kerala on May 24, nearly eight days ahead of schedule, making it the earliest onset since 2009. The IMD issued a red alert for 11 out of Kerala’s 14 districts on May 26, warning of extremely heavy rainfall. In Maharashtra, the monsoon entered Sindhudurg and adjoining areas on May 25 — a rare event in May that was last recorded in 2006. The early arrival of the monsoon has impacted agricultural cycles, with concerns of up to 70% crop damage in regions like Marathwada due to unseasonal and persistent rainfall.
Agricultural Impact and Crop Damage
The early and intense rainfall has adversely affected farming activities, especially in Maharashtra. Farmers who were preparing for the Kharif sowing season have seen their schedules disrupted. Crops such as Bajara, Jowar, groundnuts, and vegetables are at risk, particularly in the Marathwada region, where pre-monsoon rainfall has exceeded the average by over 1,000%. Rivers are already overflowing and dam inflows have significantly increased, raising concerns of floods.
Widespread Rainfall in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh
In Karnataka, the monsoon has covered nearly 60% of the state, with May likely to be the wettest in 15 years. Andhra Pradesh is also witnessing heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds. A low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal is expected to form by May 27, which could further intensify rainfall across southern India.
Rainfall Disruptions Extend to Delhi
Even Delhi has not been spared, with unseasonal rains causing waterlogging and commuter inconvenience. The sudden burst of monsoon activity across regions has caught many by surprise, with citizens and administrations scrambling to cope.
Looking Ahead
With the monsoon arriving early and with unexpected intensity, the coming weeks are likely to witness continued heavy rainfall, especially in coastal and central regions. Mumbai rains are expected to continue intermittently, prompting authorities to stay on high alert. The early start to the monsoon, while beneficial for water reserves, brings challenges in terms of infrastructure, agriculture, and daily life.
As mumbai rains persist and more regions receive unseasonal showers, the monsoon of 2025 is shaping up to be both historic and disruptive. Citizens are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions as this powerful weather system continues its advance across the country.
