Kerala Weather Alert: IMD issues orange and yellow warnings as monsoon intensifies till July 21

With the southwest monsoon gaining momentum in Kerala, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted widespread rain and thundershowers across the state over the next seven days, up to July 21. The intensified rainfall is attributed to strong westerly to north-westerly winds prevailing at lower levels of the atmosphere over the region.

In response to the forecasted heavy rains, the IMD has issued orange and yellow alerts for multiple districts
Orange Alert

• July 17: Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod
• July 18: Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod
• July 19: Idukki, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod

Yellow Alert

• July 17: Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad
• July 18: Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, and Malappuram
• July 19: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Palakkad

The IMD also warned of strong surface winds with speeds ranging between 40–50 kmph expected to affect the region intermittently until July 19. These gusty winds, along with squally weather conditions, have led authorities to issue marine warnings.

Fishermen are strictly advised not to venture into the sea along the Kerala and Lakshadweep coasts until July 19. The public, particularly those in districts under orange alert, are urged to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions.