North India is expected to see the arrival of the southwest monsoon within the next five to six days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This forecast brings hope for relief to a region currently grappling with an intense heatwave and high humidity.
Monsoon Progress and Heatwave Warnings
The IMD stated that conditions are favorable for the monsoon to advance into additional parts of the North Arabian Sea, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand over the next two to three days. Subsequently, it is projected to extend further into Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, and southeast Rajasthan in the following two to three days.
Despite the impending monsoon, the IMD has issued a warning for potentially severe heatwave conditions to persist in Uttar Pradesh until June 29.
Delhi Endures Record Heat
Delhi continues to experience scorching and humid weather, recording its warmest morning in two years. The minimum temperature settled at 31.1 degrees Celsius, which is 3.2 degrees above the seasonal average. The maximum temperature reached 41.8 degrees Celsius. The last time the city's minimum temperature was higher was on June 14, 2024, when it hit 33.3 degrees Celsius.
Heatwave conditions prevailed across the capital, with the 'feels-like' temperature soaring to approximately 50.7 degrees Celsius by late afternoon. Relative humidity was recorded at 44 percent. Thunderstorms accompanied by rain are anticipated for Monday, offering a temporary respite.
Expert Insights on Delayed Monsoon
Private weather forecaster Skymet attributed the unusually high temperatures and humidity to a combination of the delayed monsoon onset and the interaction between dry westerly winds from Pakistan and moist southwesterly winds from the Arabian Sea.
Mahesh Palawat, Skymet's Vice President for Meteorology and Climate Change, explained that this interaction leads to cloud formation late in the day, after peak temperatures have already been recorded, contributing to persistent daytime heat and discomfort. Skymet anticipates the monsoon will advance into eastern Uttar Pradesh by June 30 or July 1, reach Uttarakhand around July 2 or 3, and arrive in Delhi by July 4, provided conditions remain favorable. A small cyclonic circulation is also expected to develop, potentially triggering isolated rain spells.
Regional Forecasts
- Himachal Pradesh: A wet spell is expected until July 4, with thunderstorms and gusty winds between June 30 and July 4.
- Uttarakhand: A yellow watch has been issued for thunderstorms, intense rain, and gusty winds in hilly districts.
- Punjab and Haryana: Scattered rainfall is likely between June 29 and July 2.
- Rajasthan: Increased rainfall activity is forecast across its southeastern and eastern parts from July 2.
- Jammu and Kashmir: Pre-monsoon showers, including intense heavy rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds, are predicted in some areas.