Kerala weather: Rain alert in 8 districts, but heat may rise 3–4°C; full forecast
Kerala weather update: Rain is likely across Kerala over the next few days, but residents could also face a rise in temperatures, making for a mixed weather pattern across the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rain from September 17 to 21, with isolated heavy showers possible between September 17 and 20.
Yellow alerts have been issued for several districts during this period, while temperatures in isolated parts of Kerala could climb 3–4°C above normal on September 17 and 18.
Kerala rain alert: Check the district-wise forecast
The yellow alert covers different districts on different days:
September 17: Pathanamthitta, Idukki
September 18: Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki
September 19: Kottayam, Idukki, Malappuram, Kozhikode
September 20: Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam
A yellow alert means isolated heavy rainfall is possible. The IMD classifies heavy rain as rainfall between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm in 24 hours.
Rain with thunderstorms and strong winds
The forecast also warns of thunderstorms and strong winds reaching 40–50 kmph in isolated parts of Kerala from September 17 to 20.
While rain is expected to remain a feature in the state through September 21, the forecast does not indicate that all parts of Kerala will receive the same intensity of rainfall.
Why is Kerala seeing rain and heat together?
Despite the rain forecast, temperatures in isolated areas are expected to remain above normal. The IMD has said temperatures could be 3–4°C higher than normal on September 17 and 18.
This means Kerala could see contrasting conditions, with rain and thunderstorms in some locations while other areas experience stronger heat.
People have been advised to take precautions against the heat, particularly between 11 am and 3 pm. Drinking water regularly, avoiding prolonged direct sunlight and carrying water while travelling are among the measures recommended in the advisory.
Are schools closed in Kerala?
No district collectors have announced school holidays. The yellow alerts concern specific districts and dates and do not by themselves mean that schools across Kerala will be closed.
Students and parents should check their respective district administration or school announcements for any fresh decision.
For now, the key weather picture for Kerala is a combination of rain, isolated heavy showers, thunderstorms and above-normal temperatures, with conditions varying by district over the coming days.