Fortune India
The unusually heavy rainfall across several Indian states in May 2025 has raised questions about shifting climate patterns and the traditional summer season.
While summer hasn't disappeared, its characteristics are evolving. Typically, May is one of the hottest months in India, but this year has seen a significant deviation. For instance, Delhi recorded its wettest May since 1901.
May 2025 has seen an unusual number of western disturbances - weather systems originating in the Mediterranean region that typically bring rain to northwestern India during winter. This has led to increased rainfall and thunderstorms in regions like Delhi NCR.
The southwest monsoon has arrived earlier than usual in parts of India. Goa, for instance, experienced its earliest monsoon onset in 20 years. This early arrival has contributed to increased rainfall in May.
Experts suggest that the changing frequency and intensity of weather systems could be indicative of broader climate shifts. The increased activity of these systems during summer months, when they are typically sparse, points towards changing climatic conditions.
While the unseasonal rains have disrupted agricultural activities, especially in states like Maharashtra, where key crops like onions have been affected; urban areas have also faced challenges, with waterlogging and disruptions in daily life.
Although India’s summer is changing, it's not disappearing. Unseasonal May rains signal shifting weather due to western disturbances, early monsoon, and climate change and an adaptation is now essential.