Bay of Bengal branch (hitting the Northeast). Philippines Habagat (June–Oct) Characterized by high humidity and frequent heavy rainfall that marks the region's "low season". North America Southwest Monsoon (July–Sept) Primarily affects Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexico through a seasonal increase in thunderstorms. Myanmar (May–Oct) Progresses from the southernmost Kawthoung station to the northern parts of the country over roughly 19 days. 3. Economic and Ecological Importance The "lifeline" status of the SWM cannot be overstated, particularly for agrarian economies. Agriculture: In India, more than 60% of crops are rain-fed, making the monsoon the primary driver of food security. Hydropower & Water: The season recharges groundwater, fills rivers, and is essential for electricity generation through hydropower. Desert Ecosystems: In the North American Southwest, the monsoon is vital for desert flora and helps control wildfire risks by refilling parched groundwater reserves. 4. Challenges and Climate Variability Despite its regularity, the monsoon is subject to significant inter-annual variability: 11 sites The Indian Monsoon - PIB 15 Jul 2025 —
: Key factors influencing the monsoon include the shift of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) , the heating of the Tibetan Plateau , and upper-atmosphere features like jet streams (e.g., Somali Jet and Tropical Easterly Jet). Onset and Progression southwest monsoon season