IMD issues orange alert in Kerala as monsoon drenches south and northeast
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for two districts in Kerala, predicting thunderstorms and strong winds, as the monsoon season intensifies across southern and northeastern India, according to reports from The Hindu and The Economic Times.
What is the current status of the monsoon in Kerala?
The IMD’s orange alert, the second-highest level of warning, applies to Kasaragod and Kozhikode districts in Kerala, where heavy rainfall and gusts of up to 60 km/h are expected, The Hindu reported. The alert follows a week of persistent monsoon activity, with the region receiving 150–200% above-normal rainfall since June 1, according to IMD data.
Thunderstorms and lightning have already been reported in parts of Kerala, prompting local authorities to advise residents to avoid outdoor activities. The state’s disaster management department has activated emergency response teams, The Economic Times noted.
How is the monsoon affecting other regions?
The monsoon has advanced into Bengal and Sikkim, with IMD predicting heavy rains in these regions through mid-July. In the south, Goa, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu are experiencing a temporary lull, though the IMD warned that rainfall may resume by July 10, BusinessLine reported.
Meanwhile, the north of India is grappling with a heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 45°C in states like Rajasthan and Punjab. This contrast highlights the monsoon’s uneven impact, as southern and northeastern regions face flooding while northern areas endure extreme heat, The Indian Express noted.
What are the implications for agriculture and infrastructure?
Kerala’s agricultural sector, particularly tea and coconut plantations, faces risks from prolonged rainfall, which can lead to soil erosion and crop damage. The state’s hydroelectric projects, which rely on monsoon-fed reservoirs, may see increased output, though flood risks remain a concern.
In Bengal and Sikkim, the monsoon’s early arrival has raised concerns about landslides, particularly in hilly areas. Local authorities have urged residents in vulnerable regions to evacuate if necessary, The Economic Times reported.
What is the outlook for the monsoon in the coming days?
The IMD forecasts that the monsoon will continue to spread across southern and central India, with Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtra expected to see increased rainfall by July 12. However, the system is likely to weaken by mid-July, according to BusinessLine.
Weather experts caution that the monsoon’s behavior remains unpredictable, with historical data showing that its progression can vary significantly from year to year. For instance, in 2023, Kerala experienced a delayed monsoon, leading to drought conditions, IMD records show.