The Southwest Monsoon is set to revive strongly over Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh during the first week of July, bringing widespread rain after a prolonged dry spell.

Gujarat is currently facing an 81% rainfall deficit, while Madhya Pradesh remains 39% below normal.

A cyclonic circulation developing over South Chhattisgarh around July 2 will trigger moderate to heavy rain across Madhya Pradesh from July 2-5 before moving towards Gujarat.

Heavy to very heavy showers are expected across Gujarat, Saurashtra and Kutch between July 4 and 7.

The rain is likely to reduce the seasonal deficit, improve soil moisture, recharge water sources, support Kharif sowing and help the monsoon advance further across western and central India.