Kerala is facing the full force of an unusually early and aggressive monsoon season. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that the southwest monsoon hit Kerala on May 24, 2025, marking the earliest onset since 2009. What followed were days of relentless rainfall, resulting in red alerts, infrastructure damage, travel disruption, and the tragic loss of lives.
🛑 Red Alerts Across Northern Kerala
The IMD has issued red alerts—the highest level of warning—for Kozhikode, Kannur, and Wayanad, while orange alerts are active in Thrissur, Malappuram, and Kasaragod. Several districts are also under yellow alert through May 30.
“A cyclonic circulation over the southeast Arabian Sea has intensified rainfall activity in Kerala and neighboring states,” — India Meteorological Department
🕯️ Four Lives Lost, Hundreds Displaced
As of May 27, at least four people have lost their lives due to electrocution, drowning, and tree falls, as reported by The Times of India. Over 200 homes have been partially or fully damaged. The Revenue Department has activated relief camps in worst-hit areas like Idukki, Thrissur, and Wayanad.
Schools and colleges have been shut down in affected districts, including Kottayam, Kozhikode, and Kannur, to ensure public safety.
🚧 Roads Cut Off, Trains Delayed, Power Outages Widespread
The deluge has led to landslides in hilly regions like Idukki and Wayanad, blocking key roads and isolating villages. Train operations were delayed on major routes due to flooded tracks and fallen trees. The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) reported multiple power outages across Ernakulam, Alappuzha, and Kollam.
Dams including Peechi and Malankara have begun releasing water as reservoir levels cross warning thresholds.
🌍 A Wider Regional Impact
The phenomenon is not limited to Kerala. The early onset of monsoon has affected neighboring states:
- Mumbai witnessed its wettest May in over a century, recording 295.1 mm of rainfall in just 24 hours.
- Karnataka’s Kodagu and coastal areas are under red alert, with flooding reported in low-lying zones.
“Unpredictable monsoon behavior is being linked to larger climate anomalies,” — IMD Senior Meteorologist, quoted in Indian Express
🔮 What’s Ahead? IMD Forecast
According to IMD, heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is expected to continue until May 30, particularly in the Western Ghats region. Authorities warn of landslides, flash floods, and urban waterlogging.
🌧️ IMD Safety Advisory:
- Stay indoors during heavy downpours.
- Avoid travel through landslide-prone zones.
- Follow updates via IMD’s official website.
✅ Public Safety Tips
- Keep a basic emergency kit ready.
- Charge your mobile phones and backup power banks.
- Secure household drainage systems.
- Stay tuned to district administration alerts.
🧭 Final Word
The early monsoon in Kerala has brought much-needed rainfall but also significant challenges. As climate change continues to influence regional weather extremes, preparedness, infrastructure resilience, and timely public communication are more important than ever. Citizens are urged to stay vigilant and support relief efforts wherever possible.
📰 Credits:
- India Meteorological Department (IMD)
- India Today
- Times of India
- Indian Express
- Hindustan Times
- Image courtesy of Mathrubhumi
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This article is created using verified information available from official weather agencies and reputed media outlets as of the time of publishing. It is intended for public information and awareness. Readers are advised to follow local government instructions and disaster management updates for real-time safety measures. mallumetro.com is not responsible for actions taken solely based on the content herein.
