Kerala weather alert: IMD warns of rain, thunderstorms and 37°C heat till March 24

Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh Kerala weather alert, forecasting widespread light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across the state over the next few days. The update comes as summer temperatures in Kerala continue to rise, bringing a mix of heat and rain conditions.

According to the latest IMD weather forecast, several districts will receive thundershowers between March 20 and March 24, 2026, offering temporary relief from the ongoing heatwave-like conditions.

Kerala Rain Forecast: District-Wise Weather Update

March 20 (Heavy Rain & Thunderstorm Likely):

Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Wayanad

March 21 (Rain Continues in Central & Southern Districts):

Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad

March 22 (Moderate Rainfall Alert):

Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki

March 23–24 (Scattered Rainfall Likely):

Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Wayanad, Kannur

The IMD has also warned of thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds up to 40 kmph in isolated areas. Residents are advised to remain cautious, especially during sudden downpours, as there is a risk of falling trees, power disruptions, and lightning strikes.

Kerala Heatwave Conditions: Temperature Update

Despite the expected rainfall, high temperatures in Kerala are likely to persist:

Up to 37°C in Kollam, Kottayam, and Palakkad

Around 36°C in Thiruvananathapuram, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Kannur

These temperatures are 2–3°C above normal, indicating hot and humid weather conditions across most districts, except hilly regions, from March 20 to 22.