After making an unusually early entry into Telangana in 2025, the southwest monsoon is expected to be delayed this year, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) projecting its onset over the State around June 8 or 9.

According to D. Dharma Raju, scientist at the IMD Centre, Hyderabad, the monsoon is likely to reach Kerala around June 3 or 4 before beginning its gradual advance across the southern peninsula. After entering Kerala, the rain-bearing system is expected to take about five days to move through parts of Rayalaseema in Andhra Pradesh and enter Telangana.

Southern Telangana may first experience monsoon rain

Southern Telangana is expected to be the first to experience the season’s rains. Districts that were part of the erstwhile Mahabubnagar district, including Narayanpet and Nagarkurnool, are likely to receive the initial showers associated with the onset. “From there, the monsoon is expected to advance further north, reaching Hyderabad and the remaining parts of Telangana over the following two days. The exact pace of its spread will depend on prevailing atmospheric conditions,” he added.

In 2025, the southwest monsoon reached Kerala on May 24 and entered Telangana by May 26. The normal monsoon onset for Telangana is around June 8 to 10.

Mr. Dharma Raju attributed the difference largely to variations in wind patterns that govern the monsoon’s progress. “The progress of the monsoon depends on the strength of the low-level winds. A stronger southwesterly component generally helps the monsoon advance more quickly,” he said.

Winds govern monsoon movement

He explained that the movement of the monsoon is closely tied to the strength of low-level southwesterly winds over the Indian peninsula. When these winds are strong and persistent, they help push moisture-laden clouds inland, allowing the monsoon to advance rapidly and bring widespread rainfall. Weaker winds, on the other hand, can slow the monsoon’s progress and delay its arrival over different regions.