Skymet Podcast

In this podcast, Skymet’s Jatin Singh (MD), GP Sharma (President), and Mahesh Palawat (Vice President) present a detailed analysis of the Monsoon 2026 forecast.The team projects that the monsoon is likely to be around 6% below normal, placing it in the below-normal category (90%–95% of the Long Period Average), while 96%–104% is considered normal.A key driver this season is the expected development of El Niño, which may begin with the onset of the monsoon and intensify by late July. While June may not see significant impact, monsoon weakness is likely to set in from July onward, with August and September expected to witness notably reduced rainfall.Interestingly, after years of subdued rainfall, East and Northeast India—including Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, and northeastern states—may receive normal to above-normal rainfall. In contrast, Northwest, Central, and parts of West India—Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, West Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra—are likely to experience below-normal rainfall.Overall, nearly 60% of the country could face reduced rainfall due to El Niño conditions. The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is currently expected to remain neutral to slightly positive, but may not be strong enough to offset El Niño’s adverse impact, keeping the monsoon under pressure.

In this episode of the Skymet Podcast, weather expert Mahesh Palawat discusses the weather outlook for the next 2–3 days and up to a week, helping listeners plan their Christmas and holiday travel more safely.The episode focuses on Delhi-NCR, where falling temperatures have led to persistent cold and chilly conditions. It also explains how recent changes in wind speed and direction have contributed to an improvement in air quality, and what this means in the days ahead.Listeners will also get insights into:Fog conditions across North India’s plainsWeather trends over hill statesWhat to expect at popular tourist destinationsWeather-based travel precautions for the holiday period

In this episode of the Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President – Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, explains the science behind the Polar Vortex in clear and simple terms.The Polar Vortex is a powerful circulation of extremely cold air and low pressure that typically remains confined over the North and South Poles. However, when this system weakens or becomes unstable, cold air can spill southwards—triggering sudden cold waves, snowfall, and extreme winter conditions across Canada, the United States, Europe, and at times North India.'The episode explores the role of the jet stream, atmospheric layers, and global warming in influencing the behaviour of the Polar Vortex. With ongoing climate change, the vortex is becoming increasingly irregular and unpredictable, making winter weather more volatile across the globe.

In this episode of the Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President – Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, explains the science of air pollution and its complex relationship with climate change in simple, accessible terms.Large parts of North India, particularly Punjab, Haryana, Delhi-NCR, and Uttar Pradesh, are currently among the most polluted regions in the country, with AQI levels persistently in the ‘Severe’ to ‘Hazardous’ category. Forecasting pollution remains a major challenge as it depends on multiple weather factors such as wind patterns, temperature, cloud cover, and rainfall.The episode explores how pollution particles influence solar short-wave radiation and Earth’s long-wave radiation. Due to heavy aerosol loading over regions like South Asia, increased reflection leads to a temporary cooling effect, resulting in a relatively lower contribution to global warming compared to greenhouse gases.However, while aerosols may slightly offset warming, their impact on human health is severe—contributing to asthma, COPD, lung diseases, cardiovascular issues, and nervous system disorders.

In this episode of the Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President – Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, breaks down the evolving La Niña scenario and its implications for India’s weather.El Niño and La Niña are key global climate drivers that influence weather patterns across the world, including India. In recent years, their impacts have shown noticeable shifts from historical trends. According to current assessments, the upcoming La Niña is expected to be weak and short-lived, active mainly between December and February.This could result in slightly below-normal temperatures over North India, with brief cold-wave–like conditions at times, though the likelihood of extreme cold or severe weather remains low. Rainfall during the season is likely to be normal or marginally above normal.The episode also explains how changes in sea surface temperatures, driven by El Niño and La Niña, interact with global warming and influence India’s monsoon behaviour.

In this episode of the Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President of Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, explains the track, potential impact, and most affected regions of Cyclone Montha. The storm is currently active near 12°N and 85°E and may intensify into a severe cyclonic storm within the next few hours. Montha is expected to make landfall near Kakinada coast in Andhra Pradesh by tomorrow evening, bringing winds up to 90 km/h and heavy rainfall. Coastal areas including Kakinada, Rajahmundry, Konaseema, Visakhapatnam, and Machilipatnam are on alert. Authorities have closed schools and colleges, begun evacuation efforts, and warned of possible disruptions to rail, road, and air services.

In this week’s Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President of Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, discusses in detail the formation and trajectory of the upcoming Cyclonic Storm “Montha (or Maantha)” over the Arabian Sea. The system is expected to develop as a low-pressure area around October 18–19 over the southeast Arabian Sea and Lakshadweep region, gradually intensifying into a severe cyclonic storm. While the storm is unlikely to make landfall along the Indian coasts of Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, or Gujarat, it may bring strong winds and light to moderate rainfall to these coastal areas. The Sokotra Islands, Somalia, and Yemen coasts are likely to experience more severe impacts. The episode also touches on the withdrawal of the Southwest Monsoon and the onset of the Northeast Monsoon, both expected to occur on the same day — October 16, marking a rare meteorological event.

In this week’s Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President of Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, shares insights as the Southwest Monsoon 2025 approaches its final phase. Recently, active systems over both the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea have drawn the attention of meteorologists — especially Cyclone Shakti, the first major storm of the season, which followed an unusual and unpredictable track. The episode explores how this system originated near Gujarat, moved across the Arabian Sea, and why some global agencies classified it as a cyclone while India’s weather agency did not. Tune in to understand how tropical cyclones form, the role of Sea Surface Temperatures (SSTs), and why storms over the Arabian Sea rarely impact Indian coastlines. The discussion also highlights the early signs of the Northeast Monsoon’s arrival.

In this week’s Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President of Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, explains why the 2025 monsoon season has been unlike any other and how it will influence the coming months. The season, spanning June 1 to September 30, ended at 108% of the Long Period Average (LPA) — a remarkable record in recent decades. He discusses how El Niño, La Niña, and neutral conditions shaped the monsoon this year, leading to rainfall deficits in Bihar and East Uttar Pradesh, while Marathwada and Rayalaseema saw late recovery. The episode also delves into the declining rainfall trend in Northeast India, the impact of a negative Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), and expert insights on the regional distribution of rainfall across the country.

In this week’s Skymet Weather Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President of Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, discusses the final phase and overall journey of the 2025 Southwest Monsoon. This year’s season was remarkable, as the monsoon withdrew from Delhi and North India on September 24, a day earlier than the normal date of September 25 — the earliest since 2013. However, monsoon withdrawal doesn’t mean an end to rainfall entirely, as light showers may still occur due to Western Disturbances and other weather systems. The 2025 monsoon was Above Normal (107%), with fairly balanced rainfall distribution across the country, except for Bihar, East Uttar Pradesh, and Northeast India, which recorded a deficit. Core monsoon regions including Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan received good rainfall, aided by the absence of a long break monsoon phase, keeping the season’s rainfall pattern well-balanced.

Our 50th episode marks not just a milestone, but the beginning of a new wave of conversations—diving deeper into the science, technology, and progress shaping our future.In this special edition, Skymet CTO Vivek Singh is joined by Dr. Kenji Takeda, Director of Research Incubation at Microsoft Research, to explore how Artificial Intelligence is transforming weather and climate forecasting.At the center of this discussion is Aurora, Microsoft’s cutting-edge AI model. Aurora can do what traditional forecasting systems struggle with—running multiple tasks simultaneously. From rapid weather predictions and storm/cyclone warnings to air quality monitoring and climate change analysis, Aurora brings both speed and unmatched accuracy, especially for extreme weather events.Dr. Takeda explains how Aurora reduces reliance on supercomputers, democratizing weather forecasting and putting advanced insights into the hands of researchers, policymakers, and communities worldwide.Join us as we celebrate 50 episodes and step into this next chapter—where AI bridges science and society, helping us prepare for disasters, adapt to climate change, and understand our environment in ways never possible before.

In this week’s Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President of Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, discusses the current status of Monsoon 2025 and what to expect over the next 12–13 days. This year’s season has seen above-normal rainfall overall — 9% higher in June, 5% higher in July–August, and nearly 15–16% above normal in September. However, deficits remain in Bihar, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and the Northeast, while southern India also recorded comparatively less rainfall. Monsoon withdrawal began from Rajasthan on September 14 and will soon cover Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh. This episode also explores rainfall trends in Delhi, Rajasthan, Bihar, the Northeast, and southern India, and explains why 2025 is being called one of the most unusual monsoons of the past 50–60 years. Plus, insights on when the Northeast Monsoon is expected to arrive.

In this week’s Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President of Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, explains the current status of Monsoon 2025’s onset and withdrawal. While pan-India rainfall has been near normal this year, predicting the exact date of withdrawal remains tricky due to subjective conditions such as moisture decline, satellite imagery, anticyclones, and circulation patterns. Official withdrawal begins from western Rajasthan and often stretches from late September into October. According to Skymet, revisions in withdrawal dates are likely this year too. The episode also discusses the latest rainfall situation and forecasts for Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and the Konkan-Goa region. Will the monsoon follow its normal withdrawal pattern this time, or will climate change and global warming play a bigger role? Tune in to find out.

In this week’s Skymet Podcast (EP-47), AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President of Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, discusses the unusual progress of Monsoon 2025 and what lies ahead. June, July, and August have all recorded above-normal rainfall, with the country achieving 102% of the Long Period Average (LPA) — a rare situation last witnessed in 2007. Although the beginning of August was relatively weak, the second half brought heavy rains that pushed the national average to 5% above normal. Looking ahead, September is likely to deliver good rainfall in the first half, followed by a decline in the latter part of the month. Mumbai has already faced extreme weather with over 200 mm of rainfall in a short span, while Gujarat, South Rajasthan, and North Maharashtra are expected to see more heavy downpours. However, deficiencies remain in East Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and across Northeast India, where Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh are still facing a 30–40% shortfall, despite slight improvements in Bihar and Rayalaseema. Tune in to find out when the monsoon is likely to withdraw and how different regions may be impacted in the weeks to come.

In this week’s Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President of Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, explains how global oceanic factors are influencing the progress of Monsoon 2025. The Niño 3.4 index over the Pacific is currently at -0.4, pointing towards a developing La Niña phase which is considered favorable for the Indian monsoon. On the other hand, the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is highly negative at -1.2—the lowest since August 2022—which may suppress rainfall, as a positive IOD usually supports monsoon activity. The Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) stands at +0.6, indicating neutral conditions. So far, up to 26th August, the country has received 104% of the Long Period Average (LPA) rainfall, reflecting an above-normal season. Northwest India (including Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Delhi-NCR) and Central India (Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh) have experienced good rains, while Bihar and parts of Northeast India recorded a shortfall earlier, though conditions have improved in recent days. Tune in to understand how September’s rains may unfold and what role El Niño, La Niña, and IOD will play in steering the rest of the season.

In this week’s Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President of Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, breaks down the current status and future outlook of Monsoon 2025. With two-thirds of the season now complete, rainfall has been above average, reaching 102% of the Long Period Average (LPA). While states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan have seen heavy showers, northeastern India (Assam, Arunachal, Sikkim, East UP, Bihar) continues to face a rainfall deficit. The episode also explains how the recent “break in monsoon” shifted weather patterns, and what September withdrawal, along with global factors like ENSO and IOD, could mean for farmers and urban regions alike.

In this special episode of Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma (President, Meteorology & Climate Change, Skymet) discusses the revival of the 2025 Southwest Monsoon, which has turned active after a prolonged break. The “Break in Monsoon” that began in late July caused significant rainfall deficiency across central and western India, with a nationwide deficit of 31% at the start of August. Now, a new low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal is set to bring heavy to very heavy rains over Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Marathwada, Konkan-Goa, South Gujarat, and Saurashtra in the next 7–8 days. Rainfall in Rajasthan and Gujarat has normalized after earlier surpluses, while the Northeast still faces a 39% deficit. For farmers, the upcoming showers in central India bring relief after a long dry spell, though some crops have already been affected.

In this week’s Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President – Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, explains that Monsoon 2025 has now entered a “break phase” and highlights its impact across different regions of India.This episode delves deep into weakening monsoon activities, declining rainfall, and the weather forecast for the coming week. We also address the recent devastating cloudburst in Uttarkashi, which caused severe destruction in vulnerable areas like Dharali and Harsil.The fragile geography of the hills, unchecked tourism, and rising population are intensifying the impact of such natural disasters. The discussion extends to how climate change and human interference are aggravating their severity.From reduced rainfall in Karnataka to shifting weather patterns in Northeast India, this episode provides a comprehensive overview of the changing monsoon across the country. It also emphasizes the urgent need for responsible tourism and greater climate awareness.

As Monsoon 2025 hits its halfway mark, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma decodes the rainfall trends so far — from surplus rains in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh to the risk of floods in Bihar and Northeast India. Learn what "Break in Monsoon" really means and why August–September will be crucial for farmers across India.

In this special episode of the Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President – Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, returns to discuss the unique characteristics of the 2025 Southwest Monsoon. June and July have both performed better than average, a first since 2013. AVM Sharma explains the phenomenon known as the “Break in Monsoon” – a period when the monsoon weakens temporarily and rainfall shifts closer to the Himalayan foothills. He dives into why this break occurs, when it typically happens, and its impacts. The episode also explores the influence of powerful Typhoon 'Wipha' over the Pacific Ocean and its potential downstream effect on the Indian monsoon, possibly triggering a fresh low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal and reviving rains.

In Episode 40 of the Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President – Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, analyzes the alarming monsoon situation in Bihar during 2025. With 45 days into the season, the state is reeling under a 55% rainfall deficit—raising concerns for agriculture, groundwater, and daily life. Sharma explains Bihar’s unique geography—Southern Plateau, Gangetic Plains, and Shivalik Foothills—and how rainfall has been uneven across these zones. Southern districts like Gaya, Nawada, and Jamui have fared relatively better, while regions in North and Central Bihar including Saharsa, Araria, Sitamarhi, and Kishanganj are facing a severe shortfall. The episode delves into how Bay of Bengal weather systems have largely favored Jharkhand and West Bengal, bypassing Bihar. It also explores the influence of ENSO and other oceanic parameters. While some rainfall may occur in southern and eastern Bihar soon, full recovery will take time. This episode is a must-listen for farmers, climate watchers, and policymakers.

In this special episode of the Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma takes stock of the first 40 days of the Southwest Monsoon. This year’s monsoon has shown some unusual and fascinating trends compared to previous years. He explains how the monsoon advances through two main branches—Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal—and how these work together to drench the country. The episode also breaks down the three distinct phases of monsoon progression: south to north, east to west, and then widespread expansion across the plains. The monsoon arrived in Kerala on May 24—its earliest onset in 15 years. The episode dives into its current pace and what lies ahead. A must-listen for farmers, weather enthusiasts, researchers, and policymakers keen to understand India’s monsoon structure, movement, and impact.

In Episode 37 of the Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President – Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, discusses the early onset and current progress of Monsoon 2025, which covered the entire country by June 29—nine days ahead of schedule. He highlights how both the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea branches played a crucial role in its advancement. While Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh have received above-normal rainfall, regions like Marathwada, Rayalaseema, Bihar, and Northeast India are still facing rain deficits. The episode also explores rainfall prospects for early July, the potential slowdown after July 11, and the possibility of a "Break in Monsoon" due to the northward shift of the trough line.

In this episode of the Skymet Weather Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President – Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, breaks down the key oceanic and atmospheric drivers influencing the 2025 Southwest Monsoon. He explains the role of ENSO, IOD, SOI, and MJO, and how their current neutral to weak phases are affecting the monsoon’s pace and distribution across India. The episode explores why the monsoon has been delayed in some states, the potential for its spread by the end of June, and the broader implications for agriculture and daily life. The monsoon is also expected to reach Delhi-NCR around June 27–28.

In this special episode of the Skymet Weather Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President – Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, dives deep into the unique characteristics of the 2025 Southwest Monsoon. This year’s monsoon has been notably early and unusually dynamic compared to previous years. The episode explains how the monsoon travels through two distinct branches — the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal — gradually covering the country in three major phases. It also discusses how the monsoon moves from south to north, then east to west, finally merging across the Indian plains. Notably, the monsoon made an early onset over Kerala on May 24 — the earliest in the last 15 years.

In this special episode of the Skymet Weather Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President – Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, discusses the progress of the 2025 Southwest Monsoon. The monsoon began with record-breaking speed, hitting both Kerala and Northeast India simultaneously on May 24 — eight days ahead of schedule. Within just two days, it reached Mumbai, much earlier than the usual June 11 arrival. Areas like Santacruz and Colaba recorded over 100 mm of rainfall, an unusual occurrence. Meanwhile, the Northeast faced flood-like conditions as a system in the Bay of Bengal triggered heavy rainfall across Konkan and Bangladesh. The Western Ghats and southern peninsula also witnessed intense early showers. However, the monsoon’s momentum suddenly stalled, and it has not progressed beyond Mumbai since.This episode delves into the reasons behind the monsoon’s early surge, the sudden pause, what to expect in June, and which states are still awaiting rain. It also explores how this shift may impact agriculture, water availability, and daily life.

In this episode of the Skymet Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma delves into one of the most dangerous and deadly natural phenomena — lightning. This topic was selected based on audience suggestions, as incidents of lightning strikes rise sharply during the pre-monsoon season, often resulting in significant loss of life and property.After earthquakes, lightning is considered one of the deadliest natural disasters. It is an electromagnetic phenomenon caused by an imbalance of electrical charges between clouds and the ground, leading to flashes of lightning and thunder. Did you know over 100 lightning strikes occur every second across the globe?This episode also highlights lightning-prone regions in India such as Jharkhand, Bihar, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Northeast India.Tune in to understand why lightning strikes, how it forms, and how to stay safe.

In this special episode of the Skymet Weather Podcast, AVM (Retd.) G.P. Sharma, President of Meteorology & Climate Change at Skymet, discusses the early onset and widespread advance of Monsoon 2025. By May 24, the monsoon had already covered a large region, progressing faster than usual. Skymet had earlier forecasted an above-normal monsoon for 2025, and current data support this prediction.This episode delves into how the monsoon is expected to behave through June, highlighting regions likely to receive above-average rainfall and those where delays or deficiencies may occur. It also covers record-breaking rain in Mumbai, the formation of a low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal, and potential heavy rainfall over Northeast India. The episode concludes with insights into when and why the monsoon may pause later in the season.

In this episode of the Skymet Podcast, AVM GP Sharma discusses the recent Delhi-to-Srinagar flight that encountered severe weather mid-air. Drawing from his own experience in the armed forces, our expert analyzes the incident and explains what happens when even the pilots, cabin crew, and those in the cockpit are caught unaware by sudden weather threats. How does rapidly changing weather turn into a serious safety risk for flights? Tune in for a grounded analysis of aviation turbulence and weather unpredictability.

In this special episode, Air Vice Marshal G.P. Sharma dives into a crucial and timely topic — Artificial Rain. What exactly is this technology? How is it implemented? And why is Delhi repeatedly considering it as a solution? With the monsoon approaching Kerala and normal rains expected, certain regions may still fall short of adequate rainfall. Artificial rain, a process that induces precipitation using chemical techniques in the presence of natural clouds, is being explored as a viable option. Delhi is likely to conduct experimental cloud seeding by the end of May or early June — its success could shape future plans. Tune in to understand the science, scope, and challenges of artificial rain — only on this special Skymet episode.

In Episode 30 of the Skymet Podcast, Air Vice Marshal GP Sharma (Retd.), President of Meteorology at Skymet, discusses the early onset of the Southwest Monsoon 2025. The monsoon has entered the South Andaman Sea on May 13, which is 8–9 days ahead of its usual schedule. If it reaches Kerala around May 27 ±2 days, it will mark the earliest onset since 2009.AVM Sharma breaks down the significance of this early onset, satellite imagery insights, and evolving atmospheric conditions. He also analyses global climate parameters like ENSO, IOD, ONI, and the Nino Index, and their implications on the monsoon's trajectory. Stay tuned for further updates as the season unfolds.Tune in as we break down the science behind pre-monsoon storms and discuss the critical measures needed to safeguard the skies. Listen now and share your thoughts on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, JioSaavn, Gaana, and Audible!

Pre-Monsoon Storms: Why They Occur and How Does It Affect Aircraft | Skymet Podcast EP-29In this episode of the Skymet Podcast, we dive into the volatile pre-monsoon season that’s gripping large parts of India. With dust storms, strong winds, thunderclouds, lightning, and hailstorms becoming frequent, the skies are turning unpredictable — not just for residents but also for aviation. Our experts explore how these sudden and intense weather events disrupt air travel, leading to flight delays, diversions, and serious safety concerns. What causes these phenomena? How prepared is our aviation infrastructure to handle them?Tune in as we break down the science behind pre-monsoon storms and discuss the critical measures needed to safeguard the skies.Listen now and share your thoughts on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, JioSaavn, Gaana, and Audible!

In this special episode of the Skymet Podcast, we turn our focus to the tragic cloudburst that recently struck Ramban in Jammu & Kashmir, claiming lives and causing widespread damage. Our experts unravel the science behind cloudbursts- what triggers these sudden downpours, why they are so frequent in hilly regions, and how we can prepare better to reduce their devastating impact. From early warnings to infrastructure readiness, this episode delves into the vulnerabilities of mountain communities and the urgent need for robust mitigation strategies.Stay tuned as we continue to decode extreme weather events and their implications across India. Listen now and share your thoughts on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, JioSaavn, Gaana, and Audible!

In this special episode of the Skymet Podcast, Air Vice Marshal G.P. Sharma and Mahesh Palwat break down the recent developments in global climate patterns, focusing on the weakening of La Niña and the shift to neutral conditions in the equatorial Pacific. They have explained how the rise in sea surface temperatures signals the end of La Niña and why this transition is critical for India's monsoon. With El Niño out of the picture for the next few months, there appears to be no major climatic threat to the upcoming monsoon season. In fact, the indicators point towards a promising year of good rainfall. The episode also sheds light on what neutral ENSO conditions mean for agriculture and water resources, and why they are considered favorable for the Indian subcontinent. Stay tuned as we continue to track and decode the 2025 Monsoon in our upcoming episodes. Listen now and share your thoughts on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, JioSaavn, Gaana and Audible!

In Part 2 of this special episode, Air Vice Marshal GP Sharma and Mahesh Palawat take the monsoon forecast a step further with region-wise and month-wise rainfall distribution across India for the Southwest Monsoon 2025.Between June 1 and September 30, India is expected to receive 3% more rainfall than normal. While the long-period average is 868.6 mm, this year’s seasonal rainfall could reach around 895 mm. June may witness 4% below-normal rainfall, followed by a recovery in July with 2% above-normal rains. August could bring the strongest surge with 8% excess rainfall, while September may close with 4% more than usual.The western coast and central India are likely to receive above-normal rainfall, whereas the northeastern states, Jammu & Kashmir, and other hilly regions may see a shortfall. Most other regions are expected to experience normal rainfall.This episode offers detailed insights on how each region will fare during the monsoon months. Make sure to listen the part of this comprehensive forecast and share your valuable reviews with us. 

In this special episode of our podcast series, Air Vice Marshal GP Sharma and Mahesh Palawat have brought you the much-awaited detailed analysis of the Indian Monsoon for the year 2025.  This episode unveils Skymet's comprehensive forecast for the Southwest Monsoon 2025, explaining how the monsoon is likely to behave from June to September. We break down rainfall predictions for every state, month by month—highlighting regions that may receive above-normal rainfall, those expected to see normal rains along with the areas where rainfall could fall short.  The forecast is backed by an in-depth analysis of key weather factors such as ENSO, IOD, and other critical climate indicators. We also walk you through how this forecast was prepared and the science behind it.  As per Skymet’s assessment, the 2025 monsoon is likely to be normal. Don’t miss this insightful episode packed with data, context and clarity. Also, make sure to check the second part of this special edition, published on our channel.

In this special and exclusive 26th episode of the Skymet Podcast series, Air Vice Marshal G.P. Sharma unravels the mystery of April cyclones- why do they form in the Bay of Bengal but rarely make landfall in India? How does this phenomenon relate to the upcoming monsoon? Plus, get insights into the April 2025 forecast, expected storm activity and historical trends showing why only two major cyclones have formed in April over the past one decade.Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, JioSaavn, Gaana and Audible! Follow us across our Social media channels and share your valuable reviews with us!

In this episode, our experts analyze the weather outlook for the last days of March across Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Will pre-monsoon activities pick up in April? How intense will the heatwave be? and what are the chances of hailstorms? Plus, get insights into this year’s monsoon update and what it means for the months ahead.Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, JioSaavn, Gaana, and Audible!

In this episode, our experts AVM GP Sharma and Mahesh Palawat discuss the weakening La Niña and its potential impact on the Indian Monsoon. While La Niña has formed, it remains weak, with sea surface temperatures in the equatorial eastern Pacific starting to rise again. This indicates that La Niña may soon transition to a neutral phase, which is expected to persist during the onset of the monsoon. The chances of El Niño returning are minimal. Historically, monsoons during La Niña and neutral conditions tend to be normal or above normal. Skymet will release its detailed monsoon forecast in the second week of April. Tune in to understand what could be its potential impact for rainfall in 2025. Listen now and share your thoughts on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, JioSaavn, Gaana and Audible!

In this episode, our experts, AVM GP Sharma and Mahesh Palawat, have brought the discussion on avalanches—why they occur, their effects, and how the public can stay safe during the hazard. This effective conversation sheds light on how heavy snowfall can set off these powerful snow slides, causing destruction and endangering lives, especially in high-altitude areas above 10,000 feet (ca. 3 km). Soldiers, road workers and mountaineers are among the most affected. Thankfully, early warnings help reduce the risks. Tune in to understand the science behind avalanches and the steps we can take to stay protected. Listen now and share your thoughts on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, JioSaavn, Gaana, and Audible!

In this episode, expert meteorologists, AVM GP Sharma and Mahesh Palawat have further explained the impact of the developing La Nina on the 2025 monsoon. They have explained how the odds of a favourable monsoon remain high this year with La Niña conditions expected to persist or shift to neutral, benefitting our farmers along with the absence of El Niño further strengthening the chances of ensuring better crop yields and ample water supply in reservoirs. Listen to the entire episode to understand the science and its ramifications and share your reviews on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, JioSaavn, Gaana and Audible!

In this episode of the Skymet Podcast, our experts, AVM GP Sharma and Mahesh Palawat, break down La Niña’s arrival, its current state, and its potential impact on this year’s monsoon. They analyze the probability of La Niña persisting until the monsoon, with some weather models predicting its continuation while others indicate a shift to neutral conditions. Tune in as we have simplified the science and separated facts from speculations. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, JioSaavn, Gaana & Audible and share your reviews with us.

In this episode, our expert meteorologists, AVM GP Sharma and Mahesh Palawat break down the reason for unusual weather shifts, their impact on farmers and what lies ahead. Can this rain save the crops? Or is this just the beginning of a bigger challenge? Tune in to find out. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, JioSaavn, Gaana & Audible and share your reviews with us. 

Our expert meteorologist, AVM GP Sharma shares his expertise on this year's unusual winter, evaluating the notable rain-shortfall in North India and its far-reaching consequences in this episode. He has explained the effect of the extended dry season on rabi crops and its impact on water availability as well as agricultural productivity. Along with the forecast for upcoming days, AVM Sharma also emphasizes the indisputable effects of climate change and global warming, which are upending long-standing climate standards. Tune in to understand the urgent need for comprehensive forecasting and adaptive tactics for the massive shift that we have been witnessing in weather dynamics. Listen now across Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube music, JioSaavn, Gaana, Audible and share your reviews with us!

Our weather experts, AVM GP Sharma and Mahesh Palawat, talk about the current winter season and its peculiar trends in this episode of the Skymet Podcast. Although January and February are usually the coldest months of the year, Delhi has not recorded any cold waves this month (in January) and temperatures have been rising. With northern regions like Delhi and Kashmir experiencing mild conditions, the experts also analyze the deficit in winter rainfall and the potential impact on events like the Khelo India Winter Games 2025. Tune in to understand why the winter season is not following its usual pattern, the weak La Niña effect and the predictions for February, including possible heavy snowfall. Listen now across Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Gaana, Audible and more!

In this special Republic Day edition of Skymet Podcast, our expert meteorologists, AVM GP Sharma and Mahesh Palawat, bring some interesting weather-related trivia facts to you as they discuss the role of weather during the grand celebrations in Delhi and across India. As the national capital is currently transitioning from unseasonal warmth to a pleasant and chillier spell, we explain to you how the weather impacts the festivities, including our Iconic parade on Kartavya path.Both of our experts have had the privilege to closely witness the celebrations during their service; they share fascinating details about the first Republic Day, the history of its venue, the grandeur of the parade, and the much-awaited flypast. Tune in now to discover how weather conditions influence this spectacular event, learn intriguing facts, and follow us across Spotify, Apple Podcast, JioSaavn, Gaana, Audible and more.

Our meteorological experts AVM GP Sharma and Mr. Mahesh Palawat continue to investigate La Nina in this episode. After a long-term speculation, NOAA has finally officially proclaimed, changing the ENSO alert system's status from "watch" to "advisory." While some agencies, including the CPC ( Climate Prediction Centre) and BoM (Bureau of Meteorology), project a longer duration for La Nina, others remain skeptical. We have also explored in the episode how this phenomenon differs from last year’s predictions, the potential impacts on weather patterns and what to expect from this weak La Nina event. Listen to our expert insights on the current La Nina condition and its likely outcomes in 2025. Follow us across Spotify, Apple Podcast, JioSaavn, Gaana, Audible and more.

In this episode, we explore winter in the Indian Himalayas with emphasis on the occurrence of Chillai-Kalaan, the most severe 40-day winter season in Jammu & Kashmir. Our expert meteorologists AVM GP Sharma and Mr. Mahesh Palawat converse about the snowfall patterns in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir this season and contrast them with the past years. We examine the difficulties caused by heavy snow, such as avalanches and landslides and how they affect residents, visitors, transit and aviation. Tune in for this year’s snowfall forecasts, warnings and suggestions along with details on how this winter is different from previous ones and the challenges and rewards of snow in the hills. Follow us across Spotify, Apple Podcast, JioSaavn, Gaana, Audible and more.

In this episode of the Skymet Podcast, our weather expert Mahesh Palawat explores the hype surrounding La Niña and discusses its background and importance as it makes headlines on social media and the press. Although early monsoon forecasts indicated that La Niña would provide above-normal rains, the phenomena have not yet materialized. Although in a weak form, global models now predict that it will arrive between December and January, with neutral conditions anticipated by March. Learn the true meaning of La Niña and El Niño, how they affect India's weather and why La Niña is not likely to affect the upcoming Monsoon. Listen in for a thorough examination of these important climatic trends and follow us for more such insightful and informative content.

In this episode of the Skymet Podcast, our experts AVM GP Sharma and Mahesh Palawat, both ex-Air Force personnel, delve into the fascinating yet critical topic of air turbulence, a significant weather hazard for both aviators and air travellers.The Science behind Clear Air Turbulence (CAT), an imperceptible and erratic phenomenon that threatens flight safety, is revealed. Discover how abrupt changes in air currents that take place in cloudless, thunderstorm-free sky can cause extreme turbulence, which can affect aircraft and endanger passengers.The discussion also explores other types of turbulence caused by mountains, thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, shedding light on their causes and effects. Tune in to understand the science of turbulence and its implications for modern aviation!