Monsoon 2024: When to Expect the Last Rains and Withdrawal of the Southwest Monsoon
As the Southwest Monsoon of 2024 begins its withdrawal, several regions in India are bracing for the final spells of heavy rainfall before the monsoon season comes to a close. Here is a detailed update on the current weather situation and the forecast for the upcoming days, based on the latest reports from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Heavy Rainfall Alerts in Western India
The IMD has issued a red alert for several western coastal states, including Maharashtra, Goa, and Gujarat, due to the anticipation of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. According to Senior IMD scientist Naresh Kumar, the cyclonic circulation has moved westward, leading to intense rainfall in these regions. "There will be extremely heavy rainfall in Maharashtra and Gujarat today as well as the cyclonic circulation has moved westward. We have given a red alert for Konkan Goa, Gujarat region, and Maharashtra," Kumar stated.
Mumbai and Pune have already experienced severe waterlogging due to torrential rains, with over 200 mm of rainfall recorded in some areas on Wednesday night and Thursday morning. This has disrupted public transport services, including trains and flights, although services were restored on Thursday morning as the water receded.
Monsoon Withdrawal in Maharashtra
The monsoon in Maharashtra is expected to withdraw by October 5, according to the IMD. Scientist Sunil Kamble from the Regional Meteorological Centre in Mumbai noted that while the monsoon will reduce in intensity over the next 5-6 days, there is a possibility that the withdrawal date could extend to October 10.
Rainfall Forecast for Other Regions
In addition to the western states, other parts of India are also expected to receive significant rainfall. Here are the key forecasts:
#### Central India - Fairly widespread light to moderate rainfall is anticipated over Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh over the next few days. Madhya Pradesh is expected to see isolated severe rainfall until September 27.
#### East and Northeast India - Northeast India, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, and Sikkim are predicted to experience fairly widespread light to moderate rainfall over the next seven days. Isolated periods of severe rainfall are expected in Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and other northeastern states.
#### Northwest India - Scattered to fairly widespread light to moderate rainfall is expected in northwest India, with isolated severe rainfall predicted in East Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
Low-Pressure System Impact
A low-pressure system over the West Central Bay of Bengal is expected to bring heavy rain and thunderstorms to the northwest Bay off the coasts of North Andhra and South Odisha. This system will also cause mild to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning in isolated places in South Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal.
Conclusion
As the Southwest Monsoon of 2024 prepares to withdraw, various parts of India are experiencing the final intense spells of rainfall. The IMD's alerts and forecasts are crucial for public preparedness and safety. With the monsoon expected to withdraw from Maharashtra by October 5, residents and authorities are advised to remain vigilant and follow the updates from the IMD to navigate the remaining days of the monsoon season.
For the latest weather updates and alerts, the public can download the Mausam mobile app or visit the IMD's official website.