Kerala Gets Rain Relief After Weeks Of Heat, IMD Places Three Districts On Orange Alert

Rain returned to several parts of Kerala on Thursday, offering much-needed relief after weeks of rising temperatures, but the spell also brought a fresh weather warning from the India Meteorological Department.

The IMD issued an orange alert for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki, warning of very heavy rainfall in these districts. An orange alert means rainfall between 11 cm and 20 cm is possible in a 24-hour period.

The weather department also placed six other districts under a yellow alert, indicating the possibility of heavy rainfall ranging between 6 cm and 11 cm.

Several parts of the state are expected to experience thunderstorms along with moderate rain and strong winds. Wind speeds could reach 40 kmph, adding to the weather-related risks in areas that receive intense showers.

For Kerala, the rain has come as a welcome change after a prolonged period of uncomfortable heat. The showers have brought temporary relief to residents, with cloudy conditions and rainfall easing the impact of the recent rise in temperatures.

However, the relief may not last long. The IMD has indicated that rainfall activity is likely to decrease over the next couple of days, suggesting that the state could see a gradual return to drier conditions.

The contrasting forecast highlights Kerala's rapidly changing weather pattern, with parts of the state receiving intense rainfall even as the overall rain activity is expected to weaken.

Residents in the districts under alerts are likely to remain cautious, particularly in areas vulnerable to waterlogging and other problems during periods of intense rain. The IMD's warning for thunderstorms and strong winds also calls for caution while travelling and during outdoor activities.