Understanding Southwest Monsoon Withdrawal in India
Understanding Southwest Monsoon Withdrawal in India
Global · Published Oct 11, 2026
• The southwest monsoon typically withdraws from India between September and October, marking the transition to the northeast monsoon.
• Learn about the withdrawal process, its variability, and its impact on rainfall patterns across the country.

Timing and Variability of Withdrawal

The timing of monsoon withdrawal can vary significantly from year to year. While it generally occurs between mid-September and mid-October, factors such as La Niña or El Niño conditions can influence its pace. For instance, during La Niña years, the retreat may be delayed. In 2019, the withdrawal commenced on October 9 and concluded on October 16, while in 2020 and 2021, it was delayed until late October. This variability makes forecasting the exact timing of withdrawal challenging.

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