After making a timely and vigorous onset over Kerala, the southwest monsoon has witnessed a significant slowdown in its advance across the country. Weather experts believe the monsoon’s progress could resume around June 22 or 23 if a low-pressure system develops over the Bay of Bengal.
The monsoon’s stalled movement has left large parts of central and western India, including Maharashtra and Gujarat, grappling with intense heat and a growing rainfall deficit. With little cloud cover and limited rainfall activity, residents and farmers are anxiously awaiting relief.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and meteorologists, the pause in monsoon advancement is primarily due to the absence of active weather systems capable of driving it further inland.
Explaining the situation, meteorologist Mahesh Palawat said the southwest monsoon relies heavily on the formation of low-pressure areas over the Bay of Bengal. In a typical monsoon season, such systems act as atmospheric engines, drawing moisture-laden winds deep into the Indian subcontinent and helping the monsoon progress.
However, the formation of these low-pressure systems is currently being hindered by stronger westerly winds in the mid-latitudes. Without a supportive weather disturbance, the monsoon lacks the momentum needed to advance on its own.
Why a Bay of Bengal Low-Pressure System Matters
Weather experts say a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal could trigger a much-needed revival through a two-fold impact:
Advancing the Eastern Branch:
The system would help push the eastern arm of the monsoon further inland, extending rainfall activity to more regions.
Strengthening the Western Branch:
More significantly, it would draw stronger monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea toward the Indian mainland, enhancing moisture transport.
Boosting Rainfall Along the West Coast:
The increased flow of moisture-rich winds would then strike the Western Ghats, leading to widespread and sustained rainfall across the west coast and adjoining regions.
For now, meteorologists and farmers alike are closely monitoring developments over the Bay of Bengal. The formation of a low-pressure system is being viewed as the key factor that could revive the monsoon’s progress and bring much-needed rainfall to several parts of the country.