New Delhi: After an impressive start that saw the southwest monsoon advance rapidly across 19 states within just 15 days, the seasonal rains have suddenly lost momentum. The monsoon has remained virtually stalled over Telangana since June 8, leaving millions across northern and central India waiting for much-needed rainfall.

As a result, seven major states—including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Jharkhand—are experiencing intense heat, rising temperatures, and significantly below-normal rainfall.

Temperatures Soar Above 40°C Across Multiple States

According to the latest data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), several cities recorded extreme temperatures this week:

Banda (Uttar Pradesh): 43.2°C

Boudh (Odisha): 42.8°C

Brahmapuri (Maharashtra): 42.3°C

Daltonganj (Jharkhand): 42°C

Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh): 41.6°C

Chhapra (Bihar): 41.6°C

Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh): 41.4°C

Many regions are also reporting rainfall deficits of up to 60%, worsening heat stress and water concerns.

Why Has the Monsoon Stalled?

Meteorologists say the monsoon's slowdown is being caused by a combination of five atmospheric factors that are preventing rain-bearing systems from moving northward.

1. Weak Moisture Flow from the Arabian Sea

Moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea are currently unable to penetrate deep into the plains, reducing rainfall potential.

2. Stagnation of Monsoon Clouds

The northward movement of monsoon clouds from southern India has largely come to a halt.

3. Weak Trade Winds

The trade winds that typically help push monsoon currents inland have weakened considerably.

4. Anti-Cyclonic Circulation Over Central India

An anti-cyclonic system over central India is causing descending air movement, suppressing cloud formation and rainfall activity.

5. Weak Heat Low Over North India

The low-pressure zone that normally develops over northwestern India and helps pull the monsoon forward has not strengthened sufficiently this season.

Rainfall Deficit Raises Concern

IMD data for the period between June 1 and June 18 shows that India has received 38% below-normal rainfall overall.

The biggest rainfall deficits have been recorded in western India:

Gujarat: 79% below normal rainfall

Maharashtra: 78% below normal rainfall

The prolonged dry spell has raised concerns among farmers preparing for the kharif sowing season.

Advisory for Farmers

Agricultural experts have issued several recommendations for farmers awaiting monsoon rains:

Manage Irrigation Carefully

Farmers who have already prepared paddy nurseries should irrigate lightly during the evening hours to prevent heat damage to young plants.

Avoid Premature Sowing

Avoid transplanting paddy or sowing major kharif crops until at least 50–60 mm of rainfall has been received in the region.

Preserve Soil Moisture

Using organic mulch such as straw or dry grass can help retain moisture and reduce evaporation from the soil surface.

When Will the Monsoon Advance Again?

Weather experts believe a fresh cyclonic circulation could develop over the Bay of Bengal within the next three to four days. If the system strengthens, it may help revive monsoon activity and push rainfall further into central and northern India.

Meteorologists expect the monsoon to regain momentum after June 22, bringing showers to parts of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and neighboring states, offering relief from the ongoing heatwave conditions.