Kerala rain alert: Severe downpours forecasted as IMD puts 11 districts on orange warning
Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe weather alert for Kerala over the coming days, forecasting widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms across multiple districts.
Heavy downpours are expected to peak on July 31 and August 1, with localised intense rainfall continuing through August 2. Authorities have advised residents in vulnerable areas to take necessary precautions against potential flash floods and landslides.
District-wise alert breakdown
Orange alert: Very heavy rainfall expected
An orange alert indicates severe weather conditions, with forecasted rainfall ranging between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm in 24 hours, accompanied by lightning and intense thunderstorms.
- July 31, 2026: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod.
- August 1, 2026: Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod.
Yellow alert: Heavy rainfall expected
A yellow alert signifies isolated heavy rainfall ranging between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm in 24 hours with thunderstorm activity.
- July 31: Thrissur, Palakkad, and Malappuram.
- August 1: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha and Kottayam.
- August 2: Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod.
Safety warnings and advisory
With heavy rain and lightning forecasted across hilly and coastal belts, disaster management authorities advise people living near rivers, landslide-prone regions and low-lying areas to remain on high alert.