Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala is bracing for the arrival of the northeast monsoon (Thulavarsham) within the next two days, ushering in a fresh spell of widespread rainfall across the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that this seasonal shift will coincide with the complete withdrawal of the southwest monsoon from the rest of the country, signaling a major change in weather conditions.
With the onset of Thulavarsham, the IMD has forecast heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning over several regions in the coming days, urging the public to stay alert and exercise caution.
In anticipation of intense showers, yellow alerts have been declared in eight districts — Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, and Thrissur. The rainfall warning schedule extends through the week, with alerts for:
- Wednesday: Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, and Ernakulam
- Thursday & Friday: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, and Thrissur
- Saturday: Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, and Wayanad
According to the IMD, heavy rain refers to precipitation between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within 24 hours.
Meanwhile, the Central Meteorological Department has warned fishermen not to venture into the sea off the Kerala and Lakshadweep coasts from Wednesday through Saturday, citing rough seas and strong winds. Gusts are expected to reach 35–45 km/h, peaking at 55 km/h in some regions, along with high waves and turbulent sea conditions.
As Kerala prepares for the northeast monsoon’s arrival, authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant, particularly in hilly and low-lying areas prone to flooding and landslides.
