EnvironmentMonday, 29 June 2026·The Hindu - National
Southwest monsoon over Kerala: why its June 2026 onset matters for India
The IMD said the southwest monsoon was expected to reach Kerala on June 4, 2026, marking the official start of India’s rainy season.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In June 2026, the India Meteorological Department said the southwest monsoon was expected to reach Kerala on June 4, and noted that this seasonal system brings about 80% of India’s annual rainfall.
Key specifics
- Kerala is the first Indian state to receive the southwest monsoon because of its southwest coast location.
- The Western Ghats force moisture-laden winds to rise, cool and condense, producing rainfall.
- IMD forecast widespread rain in Kerala from June 2 to 6, with lightning and winds of 40-50 kmph.
- Orange alerts were issued for four districts on June 3, eight districts on June 4 and seven districts on June 5.
- IMD said the southwest monsoon supplies about 80% of India’s annual rainfall and supports unirrigated farmland, reservoirs and crops such as rice, pulses and sugarcane.
Exam lens
Environment and geography question: remember Kerala’s first-onset position, the role of the Western Ghats, the 80% rainfall share, and the alert system used by IMD in June 2026.