Kerala is bracing for another day of intense rainfall as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for 11 out of its 14 districts for Monday, May 26, 2025. This alert signifies the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall, exceeding 20 cm in a 24-hour period, raising concerns about potential flooding and landslides across the affected regions.
The districts under the red alert include Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod. An orange alert, indicating the possibility of very heavy rainfall between 11 cm and 20 cm, has been issued for the remaining districts. These areas are also likely to experience adverse weather conditions, and residents are advised to remain vigilant.
The IMD has been closely monitoring the Southwest Monsoon's progress, which has now advanced into Kerala, Mahe, and parts of coastal Karnataka, including the entire Lakshadweep area and parts of the Arabian Sea. The forecast predicts widespread rain or thundershowers across Kerala from May 24 to May 27, with warnings of heavy rainfall extending over the next seven days. In addition, strong surface winds reaching 40–50 kmph are expected, with squally weather and winds gusting up to 65 kmph along the coast.
In anticipation of the severe weather, authorities have taken precautionary measures. Educational institutions in ten districts, including schools, colleges, and anganwadis, will remain closed on Monday. District collectors have also advised against conducting special classes or vacation activities. In Malappuram district, this includes madrassas and tuition centers. Kannur University has postponed all examinations scheduled for Monday, with revised dates to be announced later.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has issued guidelines urging residents, especially those in landslide-prone areas, to remain vigilant and be prepared to evacuate if necessary. People living near riverbanks and dams have been advised to relocate to safer locations as a precautionary measure. The KSDMA has also warned of potential traffic disruptions due to waterlogging and poor visibility, as well as possible damage to the power sector due to uprooted trees and flooding.
The IMD has also indicated the possibility of a low-pressure area forming over the west-central and adjoining north Bay of Bengal around May 27. Strong westerly to northwesterly winds are expected to persist over Kerala and the Lakshadweep region over the next week.
With the monsoon's arrival and the forecast of heavy rainfall, authorities are on high alert and have urged the public to take necessary precautions. Residents are advised to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts and advisories, avoid unnecessary travel, and cooperate with emergency services to ensure their safety and well-being.
