Why monsoon arrived early in India this year and what it means
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Why monsoon arrived early in India this year and what it means

1. Stronger Cross-Equatorial Winds
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1. Stronger Cross-Equatorial Winds

Moisture-laden winds from the southern hemisphere surged faster across the equator into the Arabian Sea — speeding up monsoon arrival.

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2. Warmer Sea Surface Temperatures
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2. Warmer Sea Surface Temperatures

The Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal were hotter than usual, fuelling cloud formation and low-pressure systems earlier than expected.

Image credits: ANI
 3. Early Low-Pressure Systems
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3. Early Low-Pressure Systems

A developing low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal acted like a magnet — drawing monsoon winds inland before time.

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4. Active Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO)

A favourable MJO phase enhanced convection near the Indian Ocean, boosting early rainfall activity.

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5. Weakening El Nino, La Nina Incoming?

The fading El Nino and possible La Nina transition helped strengthen monsoon currents — a known trigger for early onset.

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6. Pre-Monsoon Weather Disturbances

Several systems, including a new low-pressure zone forming by May 27, added momentum to monsoon advancement.

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Implication: Agriculture Gets a Head Start

Farmers in southern and central India get more prep time and better soil moisture for kharif sowing.

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Risk: Floods & Landslides in Hilly Areas

States like Kerala and Tamil Nadu face increased risk of waterlogging, flash floods, and landslides in vulnerable zones.

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Boost: Reservoir Levels Rise Early

Reservoirs in Tamil Nadu, like the Lower Bhavani Project, are already seeing improved storage — a big plus for irrigation.

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What’s Next?

Meteorologists eye further monsoon advance and a developing low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal.

Image credits: ANI

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