The Bay of Bengal’s cyclonic depression is disrupting weather patterns, delaying the onset of India’s Northeast Monsoon, according to private forecaster Skymet. Typically beginning around October 20, this year’s monsoon is expected to start later due to Cyclone Hamoon’s influence.
Cyclone Hamoon, which is forecast to be a very severe storm as of October 24, is anticipated to weaken and make landfall on the Bangladesh coast by October 25, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The cyclone’s disturbance is significantly affecting weather conditions, leading to a delay in the Northeast Monsoon’s arrival.
This monsoon season traditionally affects Tamil Nadu, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema, south interior Karnataka, and Kerala, with parts of Telangana also experiencing related weather changes.
India faces potential below-normal monsoon; delayed arrival due to the Bay of Bengal cyclone.These regions usually witness the monsoon’s onset marked by heavy rainfall and increased humidity. However, these indicators are currently missing, delaying the monsoon’s arrival.
Meteorologists, including Skymet’s Avm Sharma, are closely monitoring rainfall patterns and humidity levels in these key regions. The IMD has forecasted scattered to moderate rainfall in Andhra Pradesh, which could signal the approaching Northeast Monsoon if conditions improve.
The delay comes amid broader concerns about India’s monsoon patterns. A report from CNBC-TV18 in September highlighted that India may face its first below-normal monsoon in eight years, with an 11 percent rainfall deficit recorded from June 1 to September 6. If this trend continues, 2023 could mark a significant deviation from recent monsoon trends.