Bhubaneswar, May 12: Weather conditions are turning favourable for the advancement of the southwest monsoon, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Officials have indicated that the monsoon is likely to arrive within its usual timeframe this year, beginning its journey across the Andaman Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands by the end of this week.

Historically, the monsoon reaches the Andaman region around May 18-19, before progressing towards Kerala in the first week of June.

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Odisha typically receives monsoon rains within 10-12 days of its arrival in Kerala. This year, the IMD forecasts a smoother progression, with rainfall expected to be above normal.

Low-Pressure System Intensifying

Meanwhile, a low-pressure system over the southwest Bay of Bengal is intensifying and may develop into a depression within the next 24 hours.

Meteorologists are monitoring whether it will strengthen further. In the short term, Odisha is expected to experience the impact of pre-monsoon activity, with Kalbaisakhi storms predicted over the next five days.

The Bhubaneswar Regional Meteorological Centre has issued a yellow warning for 21 districts, forecasting thunderstorms with lightning and rain. Districts including Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, and Sundargarh may witness wind speeds of 40-50 kmph. Residents are advised to remain cautious during these conditions.

Temperature forecasts suggest no major changes in maximum temperatures across Odisha for the next two days, though a slight rise of 2-4°C is likely.

The IMD has emphasized that while storms may bring temporary relief, heat levels will remain relatively high until the monsoon fully sets in.