Gujarat Likely to See Early Monsoon After May 27

Ahmedabad, Gujarat  – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated the likelihood of an early onset of the monsoon in Gujarat this year, following favorable conditions and the early arrival of the monsoon in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. According to forecasts, the monsoon is expected to hit Kerala by May 27, setting the stage for an earlier-than-usual entry into Gujarat.

Traditionally, the monsoon reaches Gujarat around June 15, but in 2024, it arrived slightly earlier on June 11. However, last year saw irregular progression, with the monsoon pausing over South Gujarat before advancing further into the state. This year, the IMD expects a more consistent advance, bringing relief from the scorching heat earlier than usual.

Rain Likely in South Gujarat and Saurashtra

IMD Director A.K. Das reported that light to moderate rain and thundershowers are likely today at isolated places in North Gujarat districts including Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Panchmahal, Dahod, and Mahisagar. Meanwhile, rainfall is also forecasted in all districts of South Gujarat, such as Vadodara, Chhota Udepur, Narmada, Bharuch, Surat, Dang, Navsari, Valsad, Tapi, and the union territories of Daman, Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

In Saurashtra, areas including Surendranagar, Rajkot, Junagadh, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Gir Somnath, Botad, and Diu are expected to receive rainfall. The rest of the state is likely to remain dry today.

May 17 Forecast: Continued Showers in Select Regions

For tomorrow, May 17, scattered rain is predicted in Aravalli, Panchmahal, Dahod, Mahisagar, Chhota Udepur, Narmada, Dang, Navsari, Valsad, Tapi, and Daman, Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The Saurashtra region, especially Rajkot, Amreli, and Bhavnagar, is also expected to experience light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms. Other districts will continue to see dry weather.

Favorable Conditions for Early Monsoon

According to IMD’s A.K. Das, the early progression of the monsoon is attributed to favorable atmospheric conditions. “The monsoon has already reached the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. With the current patterns, Kerala is expected to witness the monsoon by May 27, which increases the chances of an early onset in Gujarat as well,” he said.

Ahmedabad to Remain Hot

Despite rain predictions in other parts of the state, Ahmedabad and surrounding areas are likely to remain dry with maximum temperatures touching 40°C today. The IMD predicts no significant change in temperatures over the next week for the region.

The forecast has brought hope to farmers and residents eagerly awaiting relief from the heat. However, experts advise continued monitoring as precise monsoon timelines may vary slightly with changing atmospheric dynamics.