Weather Forecast: IMD predicts heavy rainfall in May, will bring relief from Heatwaves

New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has brought news of significant relief. Forecasts indicate heavy rain during the month of May 2026, offering people respite from the heat. Rainfall is predicted to be above average. However, the distribution of rain will not be uniform across different regions of the country.

This year, the month of May in India is set to be unusually wet. The IMD has stated that the entire country will experience rainfall exceeding normal levels during May 2026. The precipitation could be as much as 110 percent higher than the standard average.

This implies that even regions that typically receive scant rainfall will witness heavy downpours this time around. However, this will be accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning strikes, and strong winds gusting at speeds of 40 to 60 kilometers per hour. There is also a risk of flooding in certain areas.

The IMD possesses meteorological data spanning from 1971 to 2020. According to this data, the month of May typically records an average rainfall of 64.1 millimeters across North India and the country as a whole. This year's forecast suggests that rainfall could exceed this normal benchmark by 110 percent—meaning it could reach approximately 70–71 millimeters, or even higher.

This is an anomaly, as May is typically a month associated with heat, not rain. May is usually characterized by *loo*—scorching hot winds. However, this time, that pattern is set to shift.

What will be the impact of the rainfall?

The good news is that such substantial rainfall will lead to a drop in temperatures. It will provide some relief from the intense heat that was otherwise looming. The soil will retain moisture, which will prove beneficial for agricultural fields, and water bodies will be replenished. However, the downside is that the rainfall will not be distributed evenly. Some regions will receive scant rainfall, while others will experience excessive precipitation. In certain parts of Eastern and Northeastern India, rainfall levels are expected to remain below normal.

Which regions will receive the heaviest rainfall?

The Sub-Himalayan regions of West Bengal and Sikkim are expected to receive the highest volume of rainfall. Until May 5, very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds is expected in this region. Similar conditions will prevail across various parts of Northeast India. Between May 3 and May 6, isolated instances of thunderstorms and lightning are forecast for the Western Himalayas, the North Indian Plains, and parts of Central India. Similar conditions are also expected along the East Coast and in Eastern India.

What are the risks?

If a large amount of rain falls within a short period, it could lead to flooding in several cities. Standing crops in agricultural fields could be damaged. Strong winds may uproot trees and topple electricity poles. Furthermore, lightning strikes pose a potential threat to human life.

Why is this weather unusual?

May marks the transitional month between the spring season and the onset of the monsoon. While some unusual weather phenomena do occur during this period, the intensity of thunderstorm and cloud activity expected this time is significantly higher than normal.

What precautions should people take?

The Meteorological Department has advised officials in all states, as well as the general public, to closely monitor local weather updates—particularly in areas where there is a risk of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. Drainage systems in homes and neighborhoods should be kept clear to prevent flooding. Farmers are advised to take necessary measures to protect their crops.