Monsoon covers India 2 days sooner than expected

India has so far received 4 per cent more rainfall than normal, according to the India Meteorological Department.

It also said the Southwest Monsoon has covered the entire country two days ahead of its normal date after reaching the last frontiers of Kutch and Western Rajasthan.

All sub-regions have been receiving good rainfall except the North-east and east region of the country, where the deficiency has reached 23 per cent.

"The southwest Monsoon has advanced to remaining parts of north Arabian Sea, Kutch and West Rajasthan. Thus it has covered the entire country on July 13," the IMD said in its bulletin.

Monsoon had hit Kerala on June 8, seven days after its normal onset date, which marks the start of the rainy season in the country. In mid-June its progress had reduced considerably due to lack of traction near Karwar.

The map, below, shows the extent of monsoon in the country. Courtesy Rediff Labs

However, after that it made a rapid progress. It usually covers the last frontiers of Kutch and West Rajasthan on July 15. This marks monsoon covering the entire country.

The IMD has made a forecast of above normal rainfall this season.