India's southwest monsoon is sweeping through the country at a swift pace this season, already bringing widespread rainfall to several regions. The weather department has confirmed that Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand and Bihar are already under monsoon cover, with the next 48 hours expected to be critical for millions more people across the country.
Alerts Issued Across 23 States
Weather authorities have placed 23 states on alert for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and lightning strikes. In certain locations, wind speeds are forecast to reach 80 to 90 kilometres per hour, which poses a serious risk in open areas and regions with weaker structures. Residents in affected states are being urged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during this period.
Rainfall Already Recorded in These Cities
Mumbai, Pune, Nizamabad, Dantewada, Gaya and Muzaffarpur are among the places that have already received rainfall. Over the next 48 hours, the weather department expects the monsoon to push further ahead, with rainfall activity set to intensify across the remaining parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, Odisha, Jharkhand and Bihar.
Delhi-NCR Watches and Waits
Residents of Delhi and the wider NCR region are keenly watching for the monsoon's arrival. On average, the capital receives its first monsoon rains between June 27 and 29. If the monsoon maintains its current momentum, Delhi-NCR can expect rainfall in the final week of June this year as well.
Rajasthan Still Has to Wait
Conditions in Rajasthan remain unfavourable for monsoon activity at this point. According to weather experts, the absence of a strong weather system forming in the Bay of Bengal has slowed the monsoon's advance in some areas. As a result, people in Rajasthan are likely to have to wait several more days before the rains finally arrive.
