EnvironmentFriday, 29 May 2026·The Hindu
IMD monsoon outlook 2026: 90% of LPA rainfall and Kerala onset in early June
IMD said India is likely to receive 90% of the long-period average rainfall this monsoon, with onset over Kerala expected in the first week of June 2026.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In May 2026, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said India is likely to receive 90% of the long-period average (LPA) rainfall this monsoon, and the southwest monsoon over Kerala may arrive in the first week of June.
Key specifics
- IMD’s forecast for 2026 monsoon rainfall is 90% of the LPA, which is the benchmark used for seasonal rainfall assessment.
- The expected monsoon onset over Kerala was shifted from May 26 to the first week of June 2026.
- Kerala is the standard entry point for the southwest monsoon in India, making it a key date for seasonal planning.
- The forecast is relevant for agriculture, water storage and Kharif sowing decisions across India.
- TNPSC may ask the agency name, forecast percentage and the expected Kerala onset window in June 2026.
Exam lens
Environment and geography question type: monsoon forecast, IMD, 90% LPA, Kerala onset in first week of June 2026; one-liner—India’s seasonal rainfall outlook is a recurring TNPSC topic linked to agriculture and disaster preparedness.