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Southwest Monsoon Arrives in Kerala with Heavy Rain and Orange Alerts

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has officially announced the arrival of the southwest monsoon in Kerala, marking a delay of three days this season. Widespread heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds has prompted authorities to issue orange alerts for several districts, warning residents of potential hazards. Although overall rainfall this season is predicted to be lower than usual, the current spell is bringing intense downpours across the state.

The onset of the monsoon was confirmed following key atmospheric changes, including increased cloud cover over the southeast Arabian Sea, westerly winds reaching speeds of 20 to 25 knots, and consistent rainfall across the state over the last two days. A cyclonic circulation also persists over the southeast Arabian Sea near the southern Kerala coast. Heavy rainfall and winds of 40 to 50 km/h are expected to continue, with the monsoon projected to advance further into neighboring regions like Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka over the coming days.

In response to the severe weather, the State Disaster Management Authority has issued high-alert directives, particularly for those residing in landslide-prone hilly terrains, riverbanks, and areas downstream of dams. A strict fishing ban remains in place along the Kerala coast due to extremely rough sea conditions. Residents in high-risk zones are urged to relocate to safer places or relief camps during the daytime to avoid hazardous nighttime travel, as continued heavy rains raise fears of flood-like situations.