Why is Kerala on Alert as IMD Upgrades Rain Forecast?
Synopsis
Kerala is on high alert as the IMD has raised its rain forecast, moving from yellow to orange alerts for Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam. The state braces for heavy rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds, prompting authorities to activate warning systems and advise caution among residents and fishermen.
Key Takeaways
Kerala is under orange and yellow alerts for heavy rainfall.
Warning sirens will be activated in vulnerable districts.
Fisherfolk are advised to avoid the sea due to dangerous conditions.
Public should stay alert and minimize travel during heavy rain.
Heavy rainfall is expected until November 26 .
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 23 (NationPress) Kerala is preparing for a period of heightened rainfall as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has updated its forecast on Sunday, raising the alert level from yellow to orange for the districts of Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam.
Meanwhile, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, and Ernakulam will remain under a yellow alert as heavy rain continues to affect various regions of the state.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has declared that warning sirens will be activated in Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam as part of the KaWaCHam automated alert system.
Officials have indicated that these sirens are designed to alert residents to the potential for intense rainfall and enhance preparedness in at-risk areas.
An orange alert indicates the likelihood of rainfall between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm within a 24-hour period, while a yellow alert signifies rainfall from 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm.
The IMD stated that the development of a cyclonic circulation over the southeastern Arabian Sea is expected to keep Kerala under persistent heavy rainfall, accompanied by lightning, thunder, and gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 40 kmph, until November 26.
According to the most recent forecast, heavy rainfall ranging from 7 cm to 11 cm in 24 hours is highly likely in one or two locations in Kerala from November 22 to 26, as well as in Lakshadweep on November 22 and 23.
Thunderstorms with lightning are also anticipated during this period across both regions. With the mandala-makaravilakku season currently active, Sabarimala pilgrims have been urged to stay vigilant, as moderate rain is forecasted for Sunday at Sannidanam, Pampa, and Nilakkal.
Fishermen along the coasts of Kerala and Lakshadweep have been advised to refrain from going out to sea from Sunday to Tuesday due to expected strong winds of 35–55 kmph creating hazardous conditions.
Those already engaged in deep-sea fishing have been instructed to return to the nearest shore by Tuesday.
The IMD has also warned of rough sea conditions due to the ongoing cyclonic circulation. Fishermen are advised to avoid the South Tamil Nadu coast, Gulf of Mannar, Comorin area, Andaman Sea, and the southeastern and adjacent Bay of Bengal until Wednesday.
The IMD has issued district-specific yellow alerts for the upcoming days: Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Idukki on November 23; Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Palakkad, and Malappuram on November 24; Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam on November 25; and Thiruvananthapuram on November 26.
Authorities are urging the public to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall.
Point of View
The ongoing weather situation in Kerala highlights the importance of preparedness and swift communication in emergency management. The IMD's proactive alerts are crucial in ensuring the safety of residents and the fishing community, underscoring a commitment to public safety during adverse weather events.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an orange alert signify?
An orange alert indicates the possibility of rainfall between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm within 24 hours.
What should fishermen do during this alert period?
Fishermen are advised to avoid venturing into the sea from Sunday to Tuesday due to expected strong winds and hazardous conditions.
How long will the heavy rainfall last in Kerala?
Heavy rainfall is expected to persist until November 26, according to the IMD.
What areas in Kerala are under alert?
Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam are under an orange alert, while Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, and Ernakulam are under yellow alert.
What advice has been given to Sabarimala pilgrims?
Pilgrims have been advised to remain vigilant due to moderate rain expected during the mandala-makaravilakku season.
