Monsoon arrives early in Kerala, rain intensifies in northern districts; Red Alert issued in 11 districts on Monday

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The southwest monsoon, which arrived three days earlier than forecast, has intensified in the northern districts. For the next three days, extremely heavy rainfall is expected in these districts, particularly in the high-range (hilly) regions. On Monday, a Red Alert has been issued in 11 districts, excluding Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Alappuzha. With the likelihood of another low-pressure area forming over the Bay of Bengal by Tuesday, widespread rain is expected to continue for another week.

The monsoon was originally predicted to arrive on May 27, but consistent rainfall of over 2.5 mm for two consecutive days was recorded in more than 9 out of 14 rain gauges set up across Kerala, Karnataka, and Lakshadweep. This, along with the strengthening of the westerly winds over the Arabian Sea and a decline in terrestrial heat radiation, led to the declaration of monsoon onset. The last time the monsoon arrived early was in 2009, 16 years ago.

Red Alert
Today, a Red Alert has been issued in Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod due to the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall.

Orange Alert
An Orange Alert has been issued today in the districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Palakkad, indicating a high chance of heavy to very heavy rainfall.

Fishing ban
Strong sea turbulence is expected along the Kerala coast. Fishing is strictly prohibited, and coastal residents are advised to stay alert.

Winds up to 50 km/h
There is a possibility of strong westerly winds reaching speeds of up to 50 km/h along with the rain. Caution is advised.

Sirens to warn, forces on alert

• In areas prone to landslides and mudslides, people will be relocated to safer places. Sirens will sound as warnings in case of disaster threats.
• Control rooms are functioning at all taluk offices, and the District Disaster Management Authority’s emergency centres are operational 24/7. Public can contact the toll-free number 1077 or the emergency number 112.
• The Army, Navy, Defence Security Corps, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, CRPF, and CISF units are all on standby for emergency response.

"Remain vigilant for the next seven days"
— Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan