IMD Forecasts Heavy Rain in Kerala as Low-Pressure System Intensifies Over Bay of Bengal

The India Meteorological Department ( IMD ) has forecast widespread rain and isolated heavy rainfall across Kerala till May 16 as a developing low-pressure area over the southwest Bay of Bengal and multiple cyclonic circulations continue to influence weather conditions over southern India.

According to the IMD, the low-pressure system is likely to form by May 11 under the influence of a cyclonic circulation prevailing over the Gulf of Mannar and adjoining Sri Lanka. Another cyclonic circulation remains active over the southwest Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep and Kerala coast, triggering unstable atmospheric conditions across the region.

The weather office has issued yellow alerts for several districts over the coming days. On May 10, alerts were sounded for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki districts. Further alerts remain in place for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad on subsequent days.

The IMD said heavy rainfall of 7 cm to 11 cm within 24 hours is likely at isolated places. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph are also expected across Kerala and Lakshadweep between May 10 and 14.

Authorities warned that intense rain could lead to poor visibility, waterlogging, uprooting of trees, traffic congestion and temporary disruption of power supply. Vulnerable areas may also face the risk of landslides and mudslides , while standing crops and vegetables nearing harvest could suffer damage.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the Kerala coast, Lakshadweep area, Gulf of Mannar and adjoining sea regions on May 10 due to squally weather conditions and wind speeds gusting up to 55 kmph .

Recent rainfall has already brought relief from intense summer heat in several parts of the state, though Kerala continues to record a 22 per cent rainfall deficit since March 1. Kollam and Palakkad reported the highest rainfall shortages, while Kozhikode remained the only district with excess rainfall during the period.