India Weather Update 2026: Heavy Rain, Monsoon Withdrawal and State-Wise Forecast
India's weather pattern is entering an important transition period as the Southwest Monsoon begins its gradual withdrawal from parts of the country. While monsoon retreat has started over parts of West Rajasthan, several other regions are still experiencing active rainfall, thunderstorms and locally heavy showers.
According to recent updates from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), conditions became favourable for the monsoon to withdraw from parts of West Rajasthan around September 19. However, the beginning of withdrawal does not mean that rainfall will immediately stop across India. Different states can continue to receive significant rain while the monsoon retreats from the northwest.
Monsoon Withdrawal Begins
The Southwest Monsoon normally begins withdrawing from northwest India around the middle of September. In 2026, the withdrawal process has started around parts of West Rajasthan.
This is an important seasonal change because the monsoon gradually moves away from northwestern India before retreating from other parts of the country. The process is usually gradual rather than an overnight change, meaning rainy conditions can continue in many areas even after withdrawal begins.
For residents and farmers, the transition period is particularly important because rainfall patterns can change rapidly during late September.
Heavy Rain Expected in Several States
Even as withdrawal begins, several parts of eastern, southern and central India are expected to experience active weather.
Recent forecasts have indicated the possibility of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and thunderstorms over parts of Odisha, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu during the September 20–26 period. Some areas may also experience gusty winds and thunderstorms along with rainfall.
People living in areas vulnerable to waterlogging, flooding or landslides should remain alert to local warnings and avoid relying on general nationwide forecasts.
State-Wise Weather Outlook
Rajasthan
Rajasthan is at the centre of the current monsoon-withdrawal story. Parts of West Rajasthan have entered the withdrawal phase, and comparatively drier conditions are expected to become more common. However, rainfall can still occur in some parts during the transition.
Gujarat
Gujarat may continue to experience variable weather during the changing monsoon pattern. Some areas can receive showers or thunderstorms while other districts remain relatively dry. Local forecasts are important because rainfall can vary considerably between districts.
Maharashtra
Several parts of Maharashtra may continue to see rain and thunderstorms. Recent weather reports have indicated rainfall possibilities in cities and districts including Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Nashik and parts of western Maharashtra.
Odisha and West Bengal
Eastern India remains one of the areas to watch closely. Forecasts indicate periods of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in parts of Odisha and West Bengal, accompanied in some locations by thunderstorms and strong winds.
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is also expected to remain under an active weather pattern. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are possible in parts of the state during the current forecast period. Residents should monitor district-level warnings, especially during intense rain events.
Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh
Parts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh may experience showers, thunderstorms and periods of heavier rain. Weather conditions can vary significantly between coastal, interior and hilly areas, so local forecasts should be followed.
Delhi-NCR
Delhi-NCR is showing a different pattern from some eastern and southern states. The latest September 21 forecast indicated mainly dry conditions, with Delhi expected to remain largely clear and nearby NCR areas partly cloudy. No significant rain warning was reported for the region for that day.
Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh may see comparatively weaker monsoon activity in some periods. Earlier September forecasts indicated largely dry weather and no immediate heavy-rain alert for the state.
Why Weather Can Stay Active During Monsoon Retreat
Monsoon withdrawal does not mean that the entire country becomes dry immediately. Weather systems such as low-pressure areas, moisture from the seas and local atmospheric conditions can continue producing rain after the retreat begins in the northwest.
This is why one state may experience dry weather while another receives heavy rainfall at the same time.
What Should People Do?
During periods of heavy rain, residents should monitor official weather alerts, avoid unnecessary travel through flooded roads and take precautions in areas vulnerable to waterlogging. Farmers should also pay attention to local rainfall forecasts before irrigation, harvesting or other field activities.
Travellers should check weather conditions before starting long-distance journeys, particularly in mountainous and flood-prone regions.
Final Outlook
September 2026 is proving to be a period of transition for India's weather. The Southwest Monsoon has begun withdrawing from parts of West Rajasthan, but rainfall activity remains significant in several eastern, southern and central regions.
The coming days may therefore bring a combination of dry weather in parts of northwest India and heavy rain in selected states elsewhere. Since weather systems can change quickly, district-level IMD warnings should be treated as more useful for immediate planning than a broad national forecast.
For the latest updates, residents should regularly check official IMD forecasts and warnings for their state and district.