IMD weather alert: Yellow warning for Himalayan states and heavy rain forecast for Kerala as monsoon strengthens

Storm systems over the Himalayas and the rapid approach of the southwest monsoon towards Kerala have signalled heightened weather activity across India, according to latest satellite images released by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The agency has issued alerts for rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds in multiple regions while also warning of heavy rainfall in Kerala.

Western disturbance triggers unstable conditions in Himalayan region

A strong western disturbance moving across North India has created unstable weather conditions over the western Himalayas. Satellite imagery from INSAT-3DS shows large spiral-shaped cloud formations spread across Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

Meteorologists said dense cloud bands over the region indicate the development of powerful thunderclouds capable of producing heavy rain, lightning, strong winds and isolated hailstorms. The system is being influenced by the interaction between the western disturbance and hot pre-monsoon air over northern India, leading to sudden and intense weather activity.

IMD issues rain alerts for Himalayan states

In view of the developing conditions, the IMD has issued yellow alerts for rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds across several Himalayan states. The agency has warned of continued unstable weather in the coming days as the system progresses.

Heavy rain warnings issued for Kerala as monsoon strengthens

Meanwhile, the southwest monsoon is rapidly advancing towards Kerala, with the IMD predicting an early onset around May 26. The weather office has also forecast isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall over parts of the state between May 28 and June 3.

On Sunday, heavy rains and strong winds affected several parts of Kerala, prompting the IMD to issue an orange alert in Ernakulam district. A yellow alert was also issued for 11 districts, excluding Palakkad and Wayanad.

An orange alert indicates very heavy rainfall between 11 cm and 20 cm, while a yellow alert signals heavy rainfall between 6 cm and 11 cm.

Weather impacts reported in Kerala

Strong winds accompanying the rain caused minor damage in some areas. In Thrissur, a large tree branch fell onto a moving car, shattering its windshield. No injuries were reported in the incident.

The IMD continues to monitor the evolving conditions as both the monsoon system and western disturbance influence weather patterns across the country.