Weak Monsoon Likely in Keralam Due to El Nino, Heatwave Conditions Expected; Yellow Alert in 10 Districts

Thiruvananthapuram: The Indian Meteorological Department has indicated that the southwest monsoon may be weaker than usual in Keralam this year, primarily due to the impact of the El Nino.

Preliminary assessments suggest that the warming of sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean associated with El Nino could adversely affect monsoon patterns. As a result, rainfall across Keralam and other southern states is expected to be significantly below normal.

Meteorological reports also point to increasing subsurface warming in the eastern Pacific, which is likely to further weaken the monsoon’s intensity.

Meanwhile, the IMD has warned of rising temperatures across the state in the coming days. Several districts are expected to experience temperatures 2 to 3 degrees Celsius above normal, prompting a yellow alert in ten districts.

Temperatures may rise up to 38°C in Kollam, Palakkad, Kozhikode, and Kasaragod. In Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Kannur, temperatures could reach up to 37°C, while Pathanamthitta may see highs of around 36°C.

High humidity levels, combined with rising temperatures, are expected to cause severe discomfort, especially in non-hilly regions. The State Disaster Management Authority has advised the public to take precautions against heat-related illnesses, including sunstroke.

Although there is a slight possibility of summer showers, officials note that these are unlikely to provide significant relief from the prevailing heat.