Heavy Rainfall Triggers Alerts Across Multiple Indian States
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Early Monsoon Onset Brings Torrential Rains
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported an early onset of the southwest monsoon, arriving eight days ahead of schedule on May 24. This early arrival has led to widespread heavy rainfall across several states, including Maharashtra, Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
Maharashtra: Red Alerts and Record Rainfall
In Maharashtra, the IMD has issued red alerts for five districts: Raigad, Ratnagiri, Pune, Satara, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, indicating a high likelihood of intense rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms. Mumbai experienced its second wettest May day in a decade, with Colaba recording 162 mm and Santacruz 144 mm of rainfall between May 26 and 27.
The early monsoon has also led to flash flooding in Satara's Phaltan, displacing 150 families, and caused crop and property damage in Nashik.
Kerala: Red Alerts and Disruptions
Kerala is experiencing severe monsoon conditions, with the IMD issuing red alerts for Kozhikode and Wayanad districts, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 204.4 mm within 24 hours. Over 690 people have been relocated to relief camps in Wayanad, and similar evacuations have occurred in Kozhikode.
Educational institutions in Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Idukki remain closed as a precaution. The IMD forecasts continued heavy rainfall accompanied by gusty winds up to 50 kmph over the next four days.
Karnataka and Tamil Nadu: Heavy Rainfall Warnings
The IMD has issued red alerts for parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, warning of extremely heavy rainfall. Coastal Karnataka is expected to receive widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall until June 2, with isolated extremely heavy falls between May 27 and 30.
Advisory and Precautions
Residents in the affected regions are advised to:
- Stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel during heavy rainfall.
- Follow updates and advisories issued by local authorities and the IMD.
- Ensure emergency supplies are prepared, including food, water, and medical essentials.
- Avoid areas prone to flooding and landslides.
