Monsoon Hits Maharashtra 10 Days Early; Mumbai May Witness Record-Breaking Onset This Week

The southwest monsoon has made an unusually early entry into Maharashtra, arriving nearly 10 days ahead of schedule, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed on May 26. With conditions now favourable, Mumbai could witness its earliest-ever monsoon onset within the next three days. 

MSEDCL Declares High Alert in Maharashtra 

In response to a developing low-pressure area over the Arabian Sea, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has issued a high alert across the state. The IMD has predicted heavy rainfall and stormy weather over the next 3–4 days. As a precaution, MSEDCL has activated emergency measures to ensure power supply remains stable during the expected weather disturbances and the upcoming monsoon season. 

Earliest Monsoon Onset in Maharashtra Since 1990 

According to the IMD, this is the earliest the monsoon has hit Maharashtra in 35 years. Historically, the monsoon reaches the state around June 5, but this year it has arrived before the end of May. This marks the third earliest onset in the last six decades—after 1960 and 1990. 

The system is currently moving through Goa, parts of Karnataka, and now into Maharashtra. It has also progressed into northeastern states including Mizoram, Manipur, and Nagaland. 

Mumbai Likely to Break Historical Monsoon Onset Record 

IMD Mumbai director Shubhangi Bhute said monsoon conditions are favourable and the city could see rainfall within three days. If confirmed, this would mark the earliest monsoon onset ever in Mumbai. The previous record earliest onset was May 29, observed in 1956, 1962, and 1971. Normally, the city receives monsoon rain around June 11. 

Rainfall Surges Above Seasonal Averages in May 

Mumbai has already seen unseasonal, heavy rainfall this month. Rainfall in May is more than 700% above the normal average. According to IMD data: 

• Colaba station recorded 159 mm of rain
• Santacruz station received 164 mm 

In comparison, May 2021 saw 256 mm of rain. The record for the wettest May remains 388 mm in 2000 at Santacruz. 

Other parts of Maharashtra are also reporting extreme rain anomalies: 

• Buldhana: 4,000% above normal
• Sindhudurg & Raigad: Over 2,000% surplus rainfall 

Read More:Top Monsoon Stocks to Watch in 2025 Amid IMD's Early Rainfall Prediction. 

Monsoon Stocks to Watch 

The positive monsoon outlook is expected to benefit various sectors in the stock market, especially those linked to agriculture and rural consumption.

Agri & Agrochemical Sector Stocks 

These companies are directly linked to farm output, irrigation, and crop protection. A good rainfall boosts rural incomes and input demand. 

Note: The stocks in the table above are sorted by market capitalisation as of May 26, 2025. The 1-year return reflects the stock price change over the 52 weeks as of May 26, 2025. 

Auto Sector Stocks (Rural Demand Boosters) 

Rural demand typically sees an uptick after a strong monsoon, benefiting two-wheeler, tractor, and entry-level car manufacturers. 

Note: The stocks in the table above are sorted by market capitalisation as of May 26, 2025. The 1-year return reflects the stock price change over the 52 weeks as of May 26, 2025. 

FMCG Sector Stocks (Rural Consumption Plays) 

FMCG companies benefit from rising rural consumption and demand for personal and household care products post a good monsoon. 

Note: The stocks in the table above are sorted by market capitalisation as of May 26, 2025. The 1-year return reflects the stock price change over the 52 weeks as of May 26, 2025. 

Conclusion 

With the IMD confirming Maharashtra’s earliest monsoon onset in 35 years and MSEDCL issuing a high alert for potential weather disruptions, early rainfall is set to have both civic and economic implications.

While precautionary measures are being implemented across the state, the strong monsoon forecast also signals a positive outlook for key sectors such as agriculture, auto, and FMCG. Investors may want to keep an eye on monsoon stocks to watch in 2025, as a robust season often translates into improved rural demand and broader market optimism. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.