Monsoon Arrives Over Andaman & Nicobar Islands, IMD Confirms
The southwest monsoon has officially arrived early over the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, the IMD confirmed, signaling a significant and accelerated onset of the 2025 rainy season.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) declared the arrival of the southwest monsoon over the south Bay of Bengal, south Andaman Sea, Nicobar Islands, and parts of the north Andaman Sea. The declaration follows two days of persistent moderate to heavy rainfall in the region, particularly across the Nicobar Islands.
The early onset comes nearly a week ahead of schedule, as the monsoon typically reaches the Andaman region around May 18–19.
According to IMD data, the early monsoon declaration is based on multiple meteorological parameters. Westerly winds have strengthened consistently over the last 48 hours, with speeds exceeding 20 knots at 1.5 km above mean sea level. These winds are now observed up to 4.5 km in altitude—another strong indicator of monsoon advancement.
In addition, the Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR) values have dipped below the threshold required for monsoon onset, consistent with the increase in cloud cover and rainfall activity.
The IMD forecasts that the southwest monsoon will continue its progress in the coming days. Conditions are favorable for its further advance over the Maldives, the south Arabian Sea, the Comorin area, and deeper into the central Bay of Bengal.
This early arrival may also push forward the expected onset over Kerala. As per current estimates, monsoon winds could reach the Indian mainland around May 27, nearly five days earlier than the traditional June 1 onset.
The early arrival offers hope amid high temperatures across India. It also aligns with IMD’s long-range forecast, which predicts above-normal rainfall during the 2025 monsoon season—crucial for agriculture and water resources across the subcontinent.
Farmers and state governments are expected to benefit from the extended rainy season, allowing for early sowing and improved crop prospects.
