THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday officially declared the onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala, marking the beginning of India’s annual rainy season. The monsoon made its landfall on the southern state three days after the normal onset date of June 1.

Conditions became favourable with widespread rainfall, strong low-level winds, and the presence of an upper-air cyclonic circulation off the south Kerala coast. IMD confirmed that the southwest monsoon has set in over the state today, fulfilling all criteria including sustained rainfall of 2.5 mm or more at designated stations for two consecutive days.

The arrival brings much-needed relief from the scorching pre-monsoon heat. IMD has issued alerts for isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall (7-20 cm) over Kerala and parts of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka in the next six to seven days. Thunderstorms and gusty winds are also likely, prompting authorities to advise caution against waterlogging and minor flooding in low-lying areas.

Kerala’s Chief Minister expressed optimism that timely rains would boost agriculture, particularly the Kharif season. Paddy transplantation, coconut, rubber, and spice plantations stand to benefit significantly from the early showers. However, officials have urged farmers to take preventive measures against crop damage from excessive rain.

The southwest monsoon accounts for nearly 70 per cent of India’s annual rainfall and is critical for the agrarian economy. It supports rain-fed agriculture across vast regions, replenishes reservoirs, and sustains hydroelectric power generation. This year, IMD has forecast below-normal rainfall (around 90-94% of Long Period Average) due to emerging El Niño conditions, raising concerns among meteorologists and policymakers.

The monsoon is expected to advance gradually northward, covering the country by mid-July. While the onset in Kerala is a positive sign, sustained performance in the coming weeks will determine the overall seasonal outcome.

Residents and tourists in Kerala have welcomed the rains, which have already brought down temperatures and revived greenery. As the state gears up for the four-month wet spell, disaster management teams remain on high alert for any extreme weather events.  The arrival of the monsoon is not just a meteorological event but a cultural and economic milestone for millions dependent on its benevolence.