Heavy Rain Warning Issued for Multiple Districts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for several districts across Kerala as intense pre-monsoon rainfall continues to affect the state. Authorities have warned of heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds over the coming days, with conditions becoming increasingly favourable for the arrival of the southwest monsoon.
For Saturday, the yellow alert has been issued for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Idukki districts. The warning is expected to extend to more districts in the following days as rain activity intensifies across Kerala.
Southwest Monsoon Expected Early
According to the IMD, the southwest monsoon is likely to arrive in Kerala by May 26, nearly a week earlier than the normal onset date of June 1. Meteorologists noted that the forecast carries a model error margin of four days, but present atmospheric conditions strongly indicate an early arrival.
If the forecast materialises, this would mark the third consecutive year of an early monsoon onset over Kerala. Weather experts say the advancing monsoon could provide relief from rising temperatures and support early agricultural activities in several regions.
Fishermen and Residents Advised Caution
The IMD has also issued warnings for fishermen, advising them not to venture into the sea due to expected squally weather conditions along the Kerala coast. Wind speeds are likely to reach 40 to 50 kmph, with gusts touching up to 60 kmph in some areas.
Authorities have cautioned residents about possible waterlogging, traffic disruptions, uprooting of trees, and landslides in vulnerable hilly regions. People living in low-lying areas have been advised to remain alert as rainfall activity may intensify further over the weekend.
Monsoon Crucial for Economy and Agriculture
The southwest monsoon remains critical for India’s agriculture and water resources, contributing nearly 70 percent of the country’s annual rainfall. An early onset over Kerala is often closely monitored as it signals the beginning of the four-month monsoon season across the country.
