Swapna Kumbar, Bengaluru - India’s much-awaited southwest monsoon may have missed its expected early arrival window, but weather experts say the rain-bearing system is once again gaining momentum over the surrounding seas and moving steadily toward the mainland. The delayed progress had raised concerns over prolonged heatwave conditions and below-average rainfall forecasts, but meteorologists now expect monsoon activity to strengthen gradually across several parts of the country, including north India.

According to weather reports and forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), monsoon currents are rebuilding over the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal after temporarily weakened conditions slowed the system’s advance. Rainfall activity is likely to intensify across southern and central India before moving toward northern states over the coming weeks. North India, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, is expected to start seeing pre-monsoon showers and thunderstorm activity in early to mid-June, while more widespread monsoon rainfall could arrive later in the month if current weather patterns remain favorable.

However, forecasters continue to warn that the overall 2026 southwest monsoon season may still remain below normal due to the possible development of El Niño conditions in the Pacific Ocean. IMD and private weather agencies have projected lower-than-average seasonal rainfall this year, raising concerns for agriculture, water reservoirs, and rural economies. Despite those concerns, experts say the immediate strengthening of monsoon systems should bring at least temporary relief from the severe heat currently affecting large parts of north and central India.

While the monsoon’s delayed start initially sparked concern, the latest forecasts suggest the system is regaining momentum and progressing toward northern regions. With heatwave conditions expected to ease gradually, millions across India are now waiting for the rains that could bring much-needed relief in the coming weeks.