Karmactive Staff
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert — the second-highest level of weather warning — for several districts in Kerala as the 2026 southwest monsoon intensifies over the state. The alert indicates a high probability of heavy to very heavy rainfall that could affect daily life, flood low-lying areas and make certain roads impassable.
Districts Under Orange Alert
The IMD warning covers districts primarily in south and central Kerala, which are among the first to receive the full force of the monsoon as it advances northward along the Western Ghats. Districts including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha and Ernakulam are under watch, with isolated areas forecast to receive more than 115.6 mm of rain in 24 hours — the threshold for the Orange Alert category.
Monsoon Pattern in 2026
The 2026 southwest monsoon arrived over Kerala slightly ahead of its normal onset date of 1 June, and IMD’s seasonal forecast indicated above-average rainfall for the Kerala-Lakshadweep subdivision. The intensification of monsoon activity is associated with a low-pressure system forming over the Bay of Bengal, which is pulling additional moisture westward across the peninsula.
Fishing Ban Advisory
The Kerala Fisheries Department has issued an advisory urging fishermen not to venture into the sea off the coast of southern Kerala for the duration of the warning period. Rough sea conditions with wave heights of 2.5 to 3.5 metres are forecast, and strong winds of 45–55 km/h with gusts up to 65 km/h make fishing operations hazardous. Vessels already at sea have been instructed to return to harbour immediately.
Landslide Risk in Western Ghats
Kerala’s experience with monsoon-triggered landslides — particularly the catastrophic events of 2018 and 2019 — means that the state maintains heightened vigilance during periods of intense rainfall. The Geological Survey of India and the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSMA) have identified several susceptible zones in Idukki, Wayanad and Palakkad districts. Residents in designated landslide-prone hamlets have been alerted by local administration.
What Residents Should Do
- Monitor IMD updates and state government advisories regularly
- Avoid trekking, hill station visits or travel near river banks during alert periods
- Residents in low-lying areas should be prepared to relocate to relief shelters if advised
- Keep emergency contact numbers (fire service: 101, SDMA helpline: 1070) accessible
External Sources: India Meteorological Department | Kerala State Disaster Management Authority
