Kolkata Weather Update: Monsoon Arrives Early, This Is When Rains Are Reaching West Bengal

The southwest monsoon has reached the Andaman and Nicobar Islands nearly four days earlier than usual, marking an early start to the 2026 monsoon season, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Meteorologists said the monsoon became active across large parts of the South Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Sea and the Nicobar Islands from May 16.

Typically, the southwest monsoon reaches the Andaman region around May 20, but this year its advance has been accelerated due to a low-pressure area that formed over the Bay of Bengal on Saturday.

Low-Pressure System Accelerates Monsoon Progress

Weather experts said the low-pressure system developing over the Bay of Bengal created favourable atmospheric conditions that helped speed up the monsoon’s movement, as reported by ABP Live. The IMD noted

that the strengthened wind pattern and moisture flow associated with the system allowed the monsoon currents to advance faster than normal over the Andaman Sea region.

The development has raised expectations of an earlier-than-usual onset of monsoon over mainland India as well.

Kerala May Receive Monsoon Nearly A Week Early

According to IMD estimates, the southwest monsoon may reach Kerala by May 26.

Under normal conditions, the monsoon enters Kerala around June 1. If the current forecast holds true, the onset this year could occur almost a week ahead of schedule.

Meteorologists believe the early progress of the monsoon could have a major impact on the overall rainfall pattern during the 2026 season.

Early Monsoon Could Influence Bengal Arrival

Weather experts said an early onset over Kerala may also influence the monsoon’s movement towards eastern India. Usually, the southwest monsoon reaches South Bengal during the second week of June. However, favourable atmospheric conditions could allow it to advance slightly earlier this year.

Heavy rain and thunderstorms have already been forecast in several districts of North Bengal over the coming days.

Meanwhile, the frequency of Kalvaishakhi thunderstorms has increased across South Bengal, creating conditions considered favourable for the gradual advance of monsoon currents.

Kolkata Continues To Reel Under Humid Conditions

Even as the monsoon advances over the Andaman region, residents in Kolkata and surrounding parts of South Bengal continue to struggle with intense humidity and uncomfortable weather conditions. Although thunderstorms and rain lashed parts of the city late on Friday night, much of Saturday remained hot and muggy.

Meteorologists said the high level of moisture in the atmosphere prevented temperatures from rising sharply, but significantly increased discomfort levels due to humidity.

The IMD has forecast scattered rain and thunderstorms across several districts of South Bengal over the next few days.

While temperatures may dip slightly, weather officials warned that humid conditions are likely to persist.

Strong Monsoon Seen As Crucial For Agriculture And Economy

Experts said a timely and healthy monsoon remains critical for India’s agricultural sector and the broader economy.

Production of major kharif crops such as rice and pulses depends heavily on monsoon rainfall. Adequate rainfall also helps improve water storage in reservoirs, boosting irrigation facilities and hydroelectric power generation.

Economists believe that strong agricultural output supported by a good monsoon could help ease pressure on food prices and support rural economic activity across the country.