Bhubaneswar: Odisha has welcomed the Southwest Monsoon today, May 28, 2025, significantly earlier than its usual onset date, bringing much-needed respite from the pre-monsoon heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed the monsoon’s arrival, with its northern boundary now passing through key regions including Rayagada and extending across parts of the state.
The early arrival is attributed to favorable atmospheric conditions, including a depression that formed over the northeast Bay of Bengal yesterday. This system intensified into a well-marked low-pressure area over the same region at 0530 hrs IST today and continues to persist, indicating a sustained influx of moisture. The IMD predicts this system is likely to gradually move northwards and intensify into a depression over the North Bay of Bengal during the next 24 hours, further aiding the monsoon’s progression.
The Southwest Monsoon has advanced into several parts of Maharashtra, remaining parts of Kathua, most parts of Telangana, remaining parts of Andhra Pradesh, and has now firmly set in over parts of Chhattisgarh and Odisha, as well as the remaining parts of West Bengal.
Residents across Odisha can anticipate enhanced rainfall activities over the coming days, with the IMD issuing warnings for heavy to very heavy rainfall in certain districts. Thunderstorms and gusty winds are also expected as the monsoon establishes itself fully. Authorities have advised district collectors to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to manage any potential waterlogging or disruptions.
This early onset of the monsoon is crucial for the agricultural sector in Odisha, particularly for the rain-fed Kharif cultivation, and offers a promising outlook for water resources in the state.