The month of June 2024 has marked its place in Delhi's history with the third-highest rainfall recorded since 1901, accumulating 234.5 mm of rainfall by June 28.
This monsoon season follows behind the unprecedented highs of 415.8 mm in 1936 and 399 mm in 1933. The deluge that particularly impacted the Delhi-NCR on June 28 sheds light on the complex and dynamic nature of monsoonal activities.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has diligently analysed the situation and linked the heavy rainfall to a rejuvenated monsoon circulation after an extended phase of dormancy over eastern India.
This revival, which began on June 25, coincided with the formation of an upper-air cyclonic circulation in the Bay of Bengal.
Several meteorological phenomena aligned to fuel this deluge.
There was notable increased activity over the Arabian Sea, and an east-west shear zone set up over Northern Peninsular India, enhancing the conditions for rainfall. Additionally, converging wind patterns played a crucial role, drawing in abundant moisture.
Further compounding the scenario was the advancing low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal and the mixing of moist and warm winds, which intensified the rainfall.
This weather event was part of a larger monsoonal system that saw enhancement due to mesoscale convective activities and inherent atmospheric instability.
These meteorological dynamics underscore the complexity of monsoon patterns and their shift from inactivity to vigorous activity.
June 2024’s heavy rains reflect not just the patterns of climatic variability but also point towards the ongoing changes in atmospheric behaviour.
Such events offer critical lessons in understanding the monsoonal influences and preparing for future weather phenomena.
As Delhi-NCR and other affected regions manage the impacts, this rainfall record will remain a significant reference point for weather observation and climate study.
