Monsoon Arrives Early in Kerala: IMD Issues Red Alert Across Western Coast as Heavy Rain Batters Several States

35
386

Thiruvananthapuram: The southwest monsoon is poised to hit Kerala within the next 24 hours—marking one of the earliest arrivals in 16 years, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Traditionally expected on June 1, this year’s early onset is reminiscent of 2009 and 2001 when the rains reached the southern state on May 23.

“All conditions are now favourable for the monsoon’s onset over Kerala,” the IMD stated, confirming that the system has been strengthened by a low-pressure area and active monsoon winds. Several parts of Kerala have already witnessed heavy downpours over the past 48 hours.

Notably, the earliest recorded onset of the monsoon was on May 11, 1918. The latest arrival ever documented was on June 18, 1972. In more recent history, 2016 saw a delay with rains hitting Kerala only by June 9.

The weather department has issued red alerts for Kerala, Goa, and coastal Maharashtra, forecasting heavy to extremely heavy rainfall through May 29. Gusty winds reaching 40–50 kmph are expected to accompany the showers in these regions. Coastal and south interior Karnataka are also bracing for isolated extremely heavy rainfall today.

In Maharashtra, a depression over the east-central Arabian Sea near the Konkan coast has intensified, currently located about 40 km northwest of Ratnagiri. It is expected to make landfall between Ratnagiri and Dapoli later this morning. The IMD issued a red alert for the Konkan belt, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and wind gusts touching 50 kmph.

Goa has been lashed by intense rainfall in the past 24 hours, prompting the state government to caution residents against venturing near rivers and waterfalls due to possible flooding.

In the national capital, the IMD reported that light rain is likely over South Delhi and NCR over the next few hours. An orange alert has been issued, forecasting gusty winds that could reach up to 70 kmph.

35 COMMENTS

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here