Monsoon to intensify in Kerala as low-pressure forms over Bay of Bengal

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that monsoon showers across Kerala will strengthen further, with a low-pressure system likely to form over the Bay of Bengal by Monday.

The state is expected to receive heavy rainfall until August 20, with multiple districts placed under weather alerts.

On Sunday, the IMD issued an orange alert for Kannur and Kasaragod, forecasting very heavy rain ranging between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm within 24 hours.

A yellow alert has also been declared in seven districts — Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Malappuram, Palakkad, Kozhikode, and Wayanad — where rainfall between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm is likely.

Since Thursday, central and northern Kerala have been lashed by heavy downpours and strong winds, leading to uprooted trees, blocked roads, and damaged houses.

Water levels in several reservoirs have risen sharply, prompting emergency measures.

In Pathanamthitta, two shutters of the Kakki reservoir were opened on Saturday to ease water pressure.

In Palakkad, the Meenkara, Chuliyar, and Walayar dams touched the “third stage alert” mark, leading authorities to step up precautions.

Disaster management teams have asked residents to remain alert, especially in northern districts expected to face the heaviest spells.

Local administrations have been instructed to set up relief camps and take preventive steps in vulnerable areas as the monsoon shows no signs of retreat.