Kerala braces for heavy rainfall as monsoon deficit persists

Kerala is girding itself for the northeast monsoon amid concerns over depleted water resources following a below-average southwest monsoon. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded an orange alert for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, and Ernakulam districts from October 15, warning of intensified rainfall activity expected in the coming weeks.

The southwest monsoon, which concluded recently, delivered 28 percent less rainfall than the seasonal normal across Kerala. This shortfall has left the state's reservoirs and water resources in a strained condition as it enters the northeast monsoon period, which typically lasts from October to November and brings moderate to heavy precipitation to coastal and southern regions.

The orange alert classification indicates that residents in the four affected districts should expect heavy rainfall and associated risks including waterlogging, landslides, and disruption to normal activities. Authorities have been advised to exercise caution and implement necessary precautions in flood-prone and landslip-vulnerable areas.

The IMD's forecast suggests the northeast monsoon may provide some relief to the state's water deficit situation. However, the cumulative impact of the weak southwest monsoon may have already affected agriculture, water availability, and reservoir levels. Authorities in Kerala are monitoring the situation closely and have activated disaster management protocols ahead of the expected rainfall.