IMD cites weak rain bands and sluggish monsoon progress; onset in Goa may be delayed beyond the normal June 5 arrival date.
Goa is likely to witness a delayed onset of the southwest monsoon this year, with weather officials indicating that the seasonal rains may arrive later than the state’s normal onset date of June 5.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the monsoon’s advance over the Arabian Sea has slowed due to weak rain-bearing systems and unfavourable conditions, affecting its northward progression along the west coast.
The IMD has projected that the monsoon is now likely to reach Kerala between June 2 and June 4, later than initially expected. Traditionally, the monsoon takes approximately a week to travel from Kerala to Goa after making landfall over the southern state.
Given the delayed onset over Kerala, meteorologists believe the arrival of monsoon rains in Goa could also be pushed back by several days. The pace of advancement in the coming days will depend on the strengthening of rain bands and favourable atmospheric conditions over the Arabian Sea.
The southwest monsoon is crucial for Goa, replenishing water reservoirs, supporting agriculture and providing relief from the summer heat. Farmers and residents across the state are closely monitoring weather developments as they await the arrival of the rainy season.
The IMD is expected to issue further updates on the monsoon’s progress as weather conditions evolve over the coming days.

