KKN Gurugram Desk | May, traditionally known for its scorching heat in India, has taken an unexpected turn in 2025. Instead of the usual heatwaves, the country is experiencing cooler temperatures and significant rainfall. Meteorologists attribute this anomaly to a combination of western disturbances and cyclonic circulations, leading to one of the wettest Mays in over a century.

Key Highlights

• Second-Highest May Rainfall in 125 Years: India has recorded its second-highest rainfall for May in 125 years, providing much-needed relief from the typical summer heat.

• Influence of Western Disturbances: Active western disturbances have played a crucial role in altering the weather patterns, bringing unexpected rainfall and cooler temperatures.

• No Heatwave Forecast for the Coming Week: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that heatwave conditions are unlikely to develop in the upcoming week.

Detailed Analysis

Unprecedented Rainfall Patterns

The IMD reports that May 2025 has seen rainfall levels not witnessed in over a century. Delhi’s Safdarjung station, for instance, recorded 91.2 mm of rainfall by May 16, significantly higher than the average of 10.8 mm for the month . This surge in precipitation is attributed to multiple western disturbances and cyclonic circulations affecting the region.

Western Disturbances and Cyclonic Circulations

Western disturbances, originating from the Mediterranean region, have been more frequent and intense this year. These systems, combined with cyclonic circulations over regions like northwest Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, have led to widespread rainfall and thunderstorms . Such interactions have disrupted the typical hot and dry conditions of May.

Temperature Trends

Contrary to the usual soaring temperatures of May, many parts of India have experienced cooler conditions. In Delhi, the maximum temperature remained below 43°C until mid-May, with only a brief spike observed on May 16 . Similarly, Pune witnessed its coolest May in a decade, with average maximum temperatures around 36.3°C, a significant drop from previous years .

Regional Impacts

Northwest India

States like Rajasthan and Punjab have experienced a mix of weather conditions. While regions like Sriganganagar recorded temperatures as high as 45.9°C, other areas benefited from the cooling effects of western disturbances . The variability underscores the complex interplay of weather systems this month.

Central and Western India

Cities such as Indore and Ahmedabad have seen a drop in maximum temperatures, accompanied by increased humidity levels. Indore recorded a maximum of 36.9°C, which is 4°C below normal, while Ahmedabad’s temperature dropped to 38.8°C . These changes are linked to cyclonic circulations over Gujarat and the Arabian Sea.

Southern India

Andhra Pradesh has reported a 35% excess in pre-monsoon rainfall, with 85.3 mm recorded from March 1 to May 16 . The IMD forecasts continued thunderstorms and heavy rains in the region until May 20 . Tamil Nadu is also on alert for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms due to an upper air cyclonic circulation .

Looking Ahead

The IMD predicts that the southwest monsoon may arrive earlier than usual, with an expected onset in Kerala by May 27 . This early arrival is anticipated to benefit agricultural activities, especially for crops like rice, corn, and sugarcane. However, the unusual weather patterns observed in May 2025 highlight the increasing unpredictability of climate systems, emphasizing the need for adaptive strategies in agriculture and infrastructure planning.

May 2025 has defied traditional weather expectations in India, offering a mix of cooler temperatures and unprecedented rainfall. While these conditions have provided relief from the usual heat, they also serve as a reminder of the evolving nature of climate patterns and the importance of preparedness in the face of such anomalies.