India Braces for a Wet July: IMD Predicts 106% of Average Rainfall, Monsoon Covers Nation Early

India is set for a wetter-than-usual July as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts rainfall at 106% of the Long Period Average (LPA), signaling above-average monsoon activity for the month. The announcement comes after the monsoon’s remarkably early onset and rapid advance, with rains covering the entire country by June 29—nine days ahead of the typical schedule.

 

Key Highlights:

 

Above-Normal Rainfall: The IMD projects July rainfall to exceed 106% of the LPA, continuing a trend of robust monsoon activity that began with a strong onset in late May. Many parts of the country are expected to experience normal to above-normal rainfall, with the heaviest showers likely in Central and Southern India.

 

Early Monsoon Onset: The Southwest Monsoon arrived in Kerala on May 24, the earliest in 17 years, and swiftly spread nationwide by June 29. This rapid progression reversed early June deficits and resulted in a 9% rainfall surplus by month’s end.

 

Regional Distribution: Central and South Peninsular India are forecast to receive the most benefit, while Northwest India should see normal rainfall. Northeast India may continue to experience below-normal rains.

 

Impact on Agriculture: The timely and abundant rains are expected to boost prospects for Kharif crops such as rice, corn, and soybeans, which rely heavily on monsoon moisture. Nearly half of India’s farmland depends on these seasonal rains for crop growth.

 

Extreme Weather Events: June 2025 saw 70 instances of heavy rainfall, up from 51 last year, leading to localized flooding, landslides, and disruptions in states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Gujarat.

 

Temperature Trends: Most of India experienced normal to above-normal minimum temperatures in June, except parts of the southern peninsula.

 

With the IMD’s optimistic outlook, India is poised for a strong monsoon season—vital for agriculture, water resources, and economic stability.

 

Source: CNBC-TV18, Business Standard, IMD, Economic Times, DD News