Bengaluru, October 17, 2025: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Bengaluru as the city transitions from the southwest monsoon to the northeast monsoon, which is expected to bring intermittent rainfall over the next few days. The alert will remain in effect until October 22, warning residents to prepare for occasional rain and thundershowers accompanied by cloudy skies.

The IMD’s forecast indicates that while heavy downpours are unlikely, light to moderate showers could occur on multiple days across the city and surrounding areas. This marks the official withdrawal of the southwest monsoon and the gradual onset of the northeast monsoon season over southern India.

Transition Between Monsoons

According to reports from the Bangalore Mirror, meteorologists confirmed that the southwest monsoon has withdrawn from Bengaluru, paving the way for the northeast monsoon, which typically brings rainfall to the southern peninsula between October and December. The northeast monsoon, also known as the “retreating monsoon,” generally affects Tamil Nadu, parts of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala, with Bengaluru often receiving scattered rains during this transition period.

Weather experts note that the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon this year occurred slightly later than average. The city experienced above-normal humidity and mild daytime temperatures through early October, with the shift to cooler evenings expected as the new monsoon phase begins.

Weekly Forecast for Bengaluru

The IMD has predicted generally cloudy skies and occasional rainfall through the upcoming week, bringing relief from rising dust levels and dry heat.

October 17: Cloudy skies with occasional rain or thundershowers. Maximum temperature around 30°C, minimum 21°C, and humidity levels ranging from 75% to 65%.

October 18: Partly cloudy with light to moderate showers in some parts of the city. Temperatures are expected to remain steady with highs of 30°C and lows of 21°C.

October 19: Conditions will remain cloudy with light rain likely, particularly during evening hours. Maximum 30°C, minimum 20°C.

October 20: Cloudy skies with light rain or drizzle expected in several localities. Temperatures will hover around 30°C(max) and 20°C (min).

October 21: Light rain and cloudy conditions to persist. Temperatures are likely to stay between 30°C and 20°C.

October 22: Cloudy skies with intermittent light rain. The IMD alert continues until this date as moisture from the northeast monsoon influences local weather patterns.

Humidity levels throughout the week will range between 75% and 65%, maintaining a muggy feel but ensuring pleasant evenings due to the relatively stable minimum temperatures.

IMD’s Yellow Alert: What It Means

The yellow alert issued by the IMD serves as a cautionary advisory rather than a warning of severe weather. It indicates the likelihood of isolated rainfall or thunderstorms that could cause temporary disruptions such as waterlogging in low-lying areas, slippery roads, or traffic delays. Citizens are advised to remain alert and plan travel accordingly, especially during evening commutes when showers are most frequent.

While no major flooding or heavy rainfall is expected, the IMD has urged residents to stay informed through regular updates and avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorm hours.

Relief for Garden City’s Air and Temperature

The upcoming rains are expected to provide much-needed relief to Bengaluru’s air quality, which has recently worsened due to dust and vehicular pollution following a dry spell. The scattered showers will help settle airborne particles and reduce heat buildup in urban areas, offering cooler mornings and evenings.

Environmental experts noted that this transition period is crucial for recharging groundwater and sustaining the city’s green cover ahead of the drier months. “The northeast monsoon may not bring torrential rains like the southwest phase, but its steady showers are vital for soil moisture and vegetation,” said a meteorologist from the IMD Bengaluru office.

Commuters and Residents Advised to Stay Cautious

With the IMD’s alert in effect, Bengaluru Traffic Police have advised commuters to drive carefully on wet roads and to account for slower traffic movement during evening showers. Residents are encouraged to check weather forecasts before planning outdoor activities or long drives, especially toward Whitefield, Electronic City, and Hebbal, which often experience localised flooding during even short bursts of rain.

Season Outlook

Meteorologists predict that the northeast monsoon this year will be near normal for southern India, with Karnataka’s southern districts, including Bengaluru Urban and Rural, likely to experience intermittent rainfall through November. The IMD expects the weather to remain largely cloudy and humid, with mild temperature fluctuations.

Bengaluru, known for its moderate climate, typically records 80–100 mm of rainfall during the northeast monsoon period. The showers often contribute to replenishing city lakes and reservoirs before the onset of the dry winter season.

As the city transitions into this new weather phase, residents can expect occasional evening drizzles, cooler nights, and fresher air quality — hallmarks of Bengaluru’s monsoon charm.