Kerala braces for more heavy rainfall as IMD issues yellow alert across several districts; what travellers need to know

In a recent weather update, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued yellow alerts for several districts amid forecasts of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds in Kerala. The weather activity comes as pre-monsoon showers intensify across the state ahead of the expected arrival of the southwest monsoon later this month. Thiruvananthapuram has been placed under heavy rainfall ranging between 7 cm and 11 cm within 24 hours in Kerala between May 16 and May 18. Fishermen have been advised to avoid the sea during this period.Yellow alerts for districtsThe IMD has issued a yellow alert for Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Idukki, Pathanamthitta, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod. On May 18, alerts are expected to continue for parts of central Kerala including Thrissur, Palakkad, and Malappuram.ThunderstormsThe department has warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph across Kerala until at least May 20. Coastal regions and the Lakshadweep area are likely to witness squally weather conditions, with wind speeds potentially gusting up to 60 kmph. What it means for travellersFor travellers, the weather means disruptions across several popular tourist destinations including mountain destinations including Wayanad, Munnar, and Idukki, among others. Slippery roads, reduced visibility, Possibility of landslides or mudslides Traffic congestionTemporary road blockages Waterlogging in low-lying areasBackwater tourismAlappuzha and Kottayam, which are among popular backwater hubs, are also expected to receive heavy showers. Travellers planning houseboat stays are advised to keep a check on weather.Relief from summer heat The ongoing rainfall has brought relief from the intense summer heat. Recent showers have already lowered temperatures across several Kerala districts by a few degrees. The department currently expects the monsoon to reach Kerala around May 26, with a model error margin of plus or minus four days.Meanwhile the tourism industry is closely monitoring the forecasts across Kerala. While rain adds to the charm of Kerala’s beauty, travellers are encouraged to plan carefully, and stay updated through official IMD advisories.Rain or thundershowers are most likely at many places in Kerala till May 22, IMD said.