New Delhi | August 1, 2026
Monsoon Update: The southwest monsoon has slowed over parts of northern India, leaving Delhi-NCR without significant rainfall for the past three days and increasing humidity levels across the region. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has projected below-normal rainfall for most parts of the country during August and September, raising fresh concerns over the remainder of the monsoon season.
While scattered showers are expected in the coming days, meteorologists say rainfall may remain uneven, with some regions receiving above-average precipitation while others experience prolonged dry spells.
Delhi Experiences Dry Spell Despite Active Monsoon Season
Delhi has witnessed highly variable monsoon conditions this year, alternating between heavy downpours and prolonged periods of sunshine and humidity.
According to available weather data:
- The capital recorded rainfall on 11 days during July.
- Total rainfall reached 261.52 mm, slightly higher than 259.11 mm recorded during July last year.
- However, no widespread rainfall has been reported since July 29, leading to uncomfortable humidity across the city.
On Friday, skies remained partly cloudy with intermittent sunshine, but rainfall largely stayed away from the National Capital Region. Strong winds provided limited relief as the maximum temperature settled around 35°C, while the minimum temperature was recorded at 27.2°C.
IMD Forecast for Delhi: August 1–6
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) expects light rainfall over Delhi between August 1 and August 6.
Weather outlook includes:
- Light rain or isolated showers during the first week of August.
- Maximum temperatures likely between 32°C and 35°C.
- Minimum temperatures expected to remain between 22°C and 26°C.
- A slight drop in temperatures is forecast during the first three days, followed by a gradual increase later in the week.
While rainfall activity may resume, widespread heavy showers are currently not expected over Delhi.
IMD Predicts Below-Normal Rainfall for August and September
In its latest seasonal outlook, the IMD has projected below-normal rainfall across most parts of India during August and September.
The department estimates rainfall during the two-month period could remain below 94% of the Long Period Average (LPA).
However, rainfall distribution is expected to vary significantly across regions.
Areas likely to receive above-normal rainfall include:
- Parts of Peninsular India
- Central India
- Northern sections of Northwest India
- Some regions in Northeast India
Meteorologists note that localized heavy rainfall events may still occur despite the overall seasonal deficit.
Floods and Landslides Continue to Impact Several States
Even as Delhi waits for rain, several states continue to battle the effects of excessive monsoon rainfall.
Jammu & Kashmir
Adverse weather conditions have temporarily suspended the Amarnath Yatra, with authorities closely monitoring rainfall and road safety.
Assam
Flooding continues to affect large parts of the state.
According to official reports:
- 80 fatalities have been reported so far.
- More than 212,000 people remain affected.
- Floodwaters continue to impact 437 villages across eight districts.
Uttarakhand
Following an improvement in weather conditions, the Kedarnath Yatra has resumed, with approximately 4,500 pilgrims departing from Sonprayag.
Himachal Pradesh
Heavy rainfall triggered a cloudburst near Manali and a rockfall in Kullu, resulting in the deaths of a doctor couple while their daughter sustained injuries.
Gujarat
Persistent heavy rainfall prompted rescue operations in several districts.
Authorities have:
- Evacuated around 1,500 residents to safer locations.
- Issued Red Alerts for 13 districts, including Surat and Anand.
Why Is the Monsoon Slowing?
Weather experts say fluctuations in monsoon intensity are common during the season and depend on multiple atmospheric systems, including:
- Position of the monsoon trough
- Low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal
- Western disturbances
- Local wind circulation patterns
As these systems weaken or shift, rainfall temporarily declines before becoming active again in other regions.
What Residents Should Expect
Although Delhi is expected to receive intermittent showers during the coming week, humidity levels may remain high until sustained rainfall returns.
Meanwhile, flood-prone states are likely to continue monitoring river levels, landslide risks, and weather advisories as localized heavy rainfall persists in several regions.
Official Sources
Readers can verify weather forecasts and advisories through official sources:
- India Meteorological Department (IMD): https://mausam.imd.gov.in
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): https://ndma.gov.in
- Central Water Commission (CWC): https://cwc.gov.in
