Widespread thunderstorms and squally winds expected to persist across the state; fishermen advised not to venture into the sea.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall across various parts of Kerala, placing seven districts under a yellow alert for Saturday. The weather agency has warned residents and local authorities to prepare for potential disruptions caused by severe waterlogging, lightning, and strong winds.
The districts currently under the yellow alert include Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, and Ernakulam. According to the IMD classification, a yellow alert signifies an impending weather hazard, with isolated heavy rainfall ranging between 7 cm and 12 cm expected within a 24-hour window.
Low-Pressure System Triggers Early Deluge
The current spell of intense precipitation is being driven by a well-marked low-pressure area persisting over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal. Meteorologists have noted that the associated cyclonic circulation extends up to 5.8 km above mean sea level, tilting southwestwards and drawing significant moisture over the mainland.
Consequently, widespread rain and thundershowers are predicted to sweep across the state until May 21. Looking ahead to Sunday, May 17, the heavy rainfall zone is expected to shift, with yellow alerts scheduled for:
- Alappuzha
- Kottayam
- Ernakulam
- Malappuram
- Kozhikode
- Kannur
- Wayanad
- Kasaragod
Southwest Monsoon Slated for Early Arrival
Amid the heavy pre-monsoon downpour, the IMD confirmed that conditions remain highly favourable for the southwest monsoon to advance over parts of the south Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Sea, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands within the next 24 hours. The official onset of the monsoon over Kerala is projected around May 26, slightly ahead of its traditional June 1 schedule.
High Winds and Coastal Safety Warnings
Until May 19, isolated regions across Kerala are highly likely to experience severe thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph.
The offshore environment is expected to turn equally volatile. Squally weather conditions with wind speeds touching 40–50 kmph, and gusting up to 60 kmph, are anticipated along and off the Kerala, Karnataka, and Lakshadweep coasts. In light of these hazards, maritime authorities have issued a strict advisory prohibiting fishermen from venturing into the sea.
“Authorities have warned of possible disruptions due to heavy rainfall, including poor visibility, traffic congestion, and waterlogging in low-lying areas. Strong winds may uproot trees and damage power infrastructure.”
Advisories and Precautionary Measures
The state disaster management authorities have urged the public to exercise extreme caution. Flash floods, localized landslides in vulnerable hilly terrains, and sudden uprooting of trees pose major risks. Standing crops nearing harvest are also highly susceptible to wind and water damage.
Residents are strongly advised to monitor local traffic updates, avoid taking shelter under weak structures or trees during storms, and remain indoors during periods of active lightning to minimize casualties.
