IMD predicts Kerala monsoon on May 27.

• The southwest monsoon is expected to reach Kerala on May 27, earlier than the usual June 1 date.

• This is the earliest onset over the Indian mainland since 2009, when it began on May 23.

• The main rain-bearing system typically covers the entire country by July 8.

• The monsoon typically withdraws from northwest India around September 17 and ends by October 15.

• The IMD has forecasted above-normal cumulative rainfall in the 2025 monsoon season, excluding the possibility of El Niño conditions.

• The monsoon is crucial for India’s agriculture sector, supporting the livelihood of 42.3% of the population and contributing 18.2% to the GDP.