Cyclonic Circulation Over Arabian Sea to Bring Heavy Rain From May 20 : IMD

A developing cyclonic circulation over the Arabian Sea is expected to bring widespread rain and thunderstorms to Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh from May 20 to 23.

An upper air cyclonic circulation is likely to form over the east-central Arabian Sea off the Karnataka coast by May 21, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The system is expected to cause significant rainfall activity across multiple states starting May 20.

“The system may develop into a low-pressure area by May 22 and further intensify as it moves northwards,” IMD said in its latest bulletin.

States including Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh are forecast to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds.

City Alerts and Regional Impact

Bengaluru is under a yellow alert with thunderstorms and rainfall forecast through May 22. Daytime temperatures are likely to remain between 20°C and 33°C.

In Kerala, an orange alert has been issued for multiple districts as heavy rain and strong winds are expected to persist until May 24. The pre-monsoon activity is linked to the approaching Southwest Monsoon.

Gujarat will continue to experience pre-monsoon showers through May 23.

The monsoon is likely to arrive early, possibly before the usual onset date of June 01.

The IMD confirmed that northern Indian states are unlikely to be affected by this cyclonic activity.

The IMD noted that an upper air cyclonic circulation remains active over the northeast Arabian Sea off south Gujarat at approximately 1.5 km above sea level. This forms part of a broader cyclonic pattern building over the Arabian Sea.

Weather models indicate that the system may strengthen, but no cyclone formation has been confirmed yet.

Cyclonic circulations and low-pressure areas are typical during the pre-monsoon season. These systems often serve as precursors to the monsoon’s arrival and contribute to early rainfall activity, especially in peninsular India.

The IMD continues to monitor the evolving system and will provide timely updates.

The IMD has urged residents in affected areas to stay updated with local advisories and prepare for potential disruptions due to heavy rain and thunderstorms. Fishermen have also been advised not to venture into the Arabian Sea during the forecast period.