New Delhi: A strong heatwave is affecting many parts of India, including Delhi and North India. In most places, temperatures have gone above 40°C. Because of this, people are finding it very hard to go outside during the day. Everyone is now waiting for rain to get relief from the heat.
There is some good news. The southwest monsoon may arrive earlier than usual this year, which can help reduce the heat.
According to the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), the monsoon may reach South India by the end of May. It is likely to arrive in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands between May 18 and May 25, and then reach Kerala around May 25. After that, it will move towards North India.
Experts say the monsoon may come early because chances of El Niño are low this year. Also, the Indian Ocean Dipole is in a positive phase, which can help bring rain sooner.
However, there is a concern. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said that total rainfall from June to September may be slightly less than normal. It could be around 90–95% of the average. This may affect farmers in some areas.
At the same time, some parts are getting unseasonal rain with strong winds. This has damaged houses and crops, causing losses to farmers. While some areas are getting rain, others are still facing very high temperatures.
In short, early monsoon may bring relief from heat, but worries about less rain and crop damage still remain.