Kerala is likely to welcome the northeast monsoon within the next two days as the southwest monsoon completes its withdrawal from the country. The India Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rainfall in parts of the state between October 15 and 18, with yellow alerts issued for several districts on October 15 and 16.
Thiruvananthapuram: The northeast monsoon, locally known as Thulasavarsham, is expected to arrive in Kerala within the next two days, according to the Meteorological Department. Heavy rainfall is forecast in parts of the state from October 15 to 18.
The transition is expected to follow the complete withdrawal of the southwest monsoon from the country. The northeast monsoon is an important source of rainfall for southern peninsular India, including Kerala.
Yellow alerts issued for multiple districts
The Meteorological Department has issued yellow alerts for several districts in Kerala, warning of the possibility of heavy rainfall.
October 15: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki.
October 16: Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram and Wayanad.
Heavy rainfall is forecast to continue in parts of Kerala through October 18. Residents in the districts under alert should follow official weather updates and any instructions issued by local authorities.
The district-wise alerts may change depending on evolving weather conditions. Residents should consult the latest bulletins from the India Meteorological Department for updated forecasts and warnings.
What the northeast monsoon means for Kerala
The northeast monsoon, which typically brings rainfall to southern peninsular India during the October–December period, follows the withdrawal phase of the southwest monsoon. It contributes significantly to seasonal rainfall across parts of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and neighbouring regions.
The onset of the northeast monsoon does not mean that every district will experience continuous heavy rainfall. Rainfall intensity and distribution can vary across the state, making district-specific forecasts important.
With heavy rain predicted between October 15 and 18, residents should monitor official alerts, particularly in areas vulnerable to waterlogging, localised flooding and landslides. The yellow alert indicates that people should remain aware of changing weather conditions and follow official advice.
Published: 13 Oct 2026, 08:39 am IST
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