Kerala Monsoon 2026: How to track clouds using IMD images

Monsoon rain lashed Kochi on Thursday morning. A scene from Chittoor House in Kochi. | Photo credit: H.Vibhu

The onset and declaration of the Southwest Monsoon is expected today (June 4, 2026), with all eyes on Kerala.

The IMD (India Meteorological Department) had earlier said that the onset of monsoon over Kerala will take place on May 26. However, it was delayed and the ministry said on 29 May that the start could take place the following week.

How to Track Indian Monsoon Arrival Using INSAT-3DS Monsoon Cloud Satellite Images?

Since the monsoon is a closely watched natural phenomenon in India, you can do it too.

How to see through IMD satellite services?

• Open it IMD satellite page or faster updates Fast scanning of IMD satellite images

• In the menu bar, you can switch between the Asian sector and regional circuits such as the Arabian Sea or the Bay of Bengal.

• Look for massive, dense clouds moving from southwest to northeast. During the day, use the Visible channel to see clouds. Use the Infrared-1 channel at night.

Screengrab from the IMD Satellite Services portal on June 4, 2026

How to view more detailed monsoon data?

Monsoon is not just about the rain that falls on the ground. It is also important to watch storms, which sometimes form kilometers above the ground in the atmosphere. You can follow them like this:

• on IMD Satellite Services Pageselect Cloud Top Brightness Temperature (CTBT).

• Dark red, purple, or deep white spots will appear on the map to indicate the temperature of the clouds and, conversely, the monsoon storms necessary for precipitation.

A screenshot of the cloud peak brightness temperature section of the IMD Satellite Services Portal.

How and when is monsoon declared?

Monsoon is officially declared by the IMD after a certain amount of rain is received at designated weather stations across Kerala. The depth and strength of westerly winds must also reach a predetermined height and speed. Monsoon is declared after it reaches Kerala and then proceeds to blanket the country.

Kerala Monsoon Onset: Why the arrival of Southwest Monsoon is important for India

Why is Kerala important for determining the onset of monsoon?

The geographical location of Kerala is a significant factor influencing its climate, especially the monsoon patterns. Located on the southwest coast of India, the state is positioned to experience the first impact of the southwest monsoon, which usually begins around the end of May and continues into September.

Why is southwest monsoon important to India?

The Southwest Monsoon is important to the country as it brings about 80% of the country’s annual rainfall. When the monsoon arrives on time and provides enough rain, it prepares the ground for the planting of important summer crops such as rice, pulses and sugarcane. This helps secure food supplies and also improve the incomes of countless families.

Published – 04 Jun 2026 08:16 IST