Monsoon nears Varanasi: cooling rains expected in the coming days

Relief from the early-summer heat may be just around the corner for Kashi. Weather forecasters expect the southwest monsoon to advance into Uttar Pradesh from around the fourth week of June, spreading to more parts of the state over the following days as the system moves up from the Bihar and West Bengal side. Until the rains settle in, the city is likely to see a few more warm days, with daytime temperatures climbing into the high 30s and around 40 degrees Celsius. Residents and visitors are advised to stay hydrated, carry water and an umbrella, plan outdoor sightseeing for the cooler early-morning and evening hours, and keep an eye out for the first pre-monsoon showers and thundery spells. Once the monsoon arrives, Banaras takes on one of its most atmospheric moods — rain-washed ghats, a fuller Ganga and soft grey skies over the city's golden stone. Boatmen, pilgrims and photographers alike welcome the change of season. For the latest day-to-day outlook it is best to check official forecasts from the India Meteorological Department, as the exact timing of the monsoon's onset can shift by a few days.

Compiled by HelloBanaras from public sources: India Meteorological Department — Monsoon information · The Sunday Guardian — UP monsoon update