Where is the monsoon and when is it coming to Delhi? IMD shares latest status | Check forecast

New Delhi: After an unusually delayed advance, the southwest monsoon is finally expected to make its way into Delhi in the first week of July, bringing widespread rain and relief from the prolonged spell of heat and humidity.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the southwest monsoon is likely to advance into Delhi, Chandigarh and adjoining parts of northwest India between July 2 and July 8, subject to favourable weather conditions. The normal date for the monsoon's onset over Delhi is June 27, making this year's arrival later than usual.

Where is the monsoon now?

The IMD said weather conditions are becoming increasingly favourable for the monsoon's northward advance. Moisture-laden winds, active weather systems and widespread rainfall over several parts of northern and eastern India are expected to help the monsoon progress towards Delhi over the coming days.

Although the official monsoon has not yet reached the national capital, Delhi has already experienced thunderstorms, gusty winds and scattered showers due to pre-monsoon activity.

The IMD has forecast generally cloudy skies along with spells of light to moderate rain, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds across Delhi over the next several days. Wind speeds could reach 40-60 kmph during thunderstorm activity.

Meteorologists say rainfall activity is expected to become more widespread as the southwest monsoon advances into the region.

Why has the monsoon been delayed?

The delayed progress has been linked to unfavourable atmospheric conditions during June. The IMD has noted that June 2026 was significantly drier than normal across many parts of the country, while July rainfall is also expected to remain below the long-period average despite an improvement in rainfall over the next week.

Experts say the monsoon's advance is influenced by several factors, including the strength of monsoon winds, low-pressure systems and large-scale climate patterns.

What does it mean for Delhi?

The arrival of the southwest monsoon is expected to bring a sustained spell of rainfall, leading to a drop in daytime temperatures and relief from humid conditions. However, the IMD has also cautioned that intense showers could cause waterlogging and traffic disruptions in parts of the National Capital Region.

Residents have been advised to monitor official weather updates, particularly during periods of thunderstorms and strong winds.