Monsoon may remain subdued after vigorous onset in Kerala
The India Meteorological Department has announced the onset of the southwest monsoon in Kerala for June 4, 2026, following a delay. Despite the start, officials warn of a sluggish season ahead, potentially exacerbated by developing El Niño conditions that could lead to deficient rainfall.
Why it matters
A weak monsoon season poses significant risks to agricultural productivity and water security for the Indian subcontinent, potentially leading to drought conditions.
The southwest monsoon, which missed its predicted onset date of May 26 and the normal onset date of June 1 over Kerala this season, is finally set to begin on June 4, 2026. However, just like the sluggish progress of the monsoon current so far this season, the monsoon is likely to remain sluggish over Kerala in June after a relatively vigorous onset.
The article relies on official meteorological data and expert quotes without injecting political or subjective commentary.
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